Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive spinal cord disease causing gradual paralysis in dogs. Understanding the disease course and welfare-focused management helps owners support affected dogs through each stage.
DM welfare management requires honest, stage-by-stage quality of life assessment throughout the disease course. The absence of pain is both a welfare advantage and a communication challenge — dogs with DM may appear normal behaviourally while losing neurological function, making owners uncertain about progression. Regular physiotherapy — hydrotherapy, passive range-of-motion exercises, supported walking — significantly slows functional decline and maintains muscle mass. Dog wheelchairs are highly effective welfare tools: most dogs adapt readily and maintain enthusiasm for exercise, social interaction, and play. Welfare deteriorates significantly when upper limb weakness develops, incontinence becomes unmanageable, or the dog loses interest in engagement. End-of-life decision-making should focus on the dog's quality of experienced life rather than the extent of physical disability. DNA testing allows prospective identification and selective breeding decisions to reduce DM prevalence in affected breeds.