How to prevent or test German Shepherds for degenerative myelopathy?

Question

German Shepard have a new spinal disease that effects all 4 legs, feet go backwards, a lot of pain and can't move. have they found a way of preventing this? Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | 6 years old

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

I am not 100% sure what you are referring to but I am guessing DM (degenerative myelopathy). Is that correct? Yes, there is DNA testing available to see which dogs carry the gene for this disease. If two dogs bred together that both have this autosomal recessive gene then the chance of the offspring developing the disease is 1 in 4. Some dogs carry the gene but never develop symptoms. All animals should ideally be tested prior to purchase and breeding. The problem is that most breeders do not do the testing. If you buy another GSD you should only buy from a breeder that has done the testing. Hope this answers your question. Best wishes.

How to prevent or test German Shepherds for degenerative myelopathy?

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