Canine myasthenia gravis (MG) is an immune-mediated neuromuscular disease causing progressive muscle weakness and often megaoesophagus, with serious welfare consequences.
Myasthenia gravis causes episodic weakness that can be severe and distressing, with affected dogs collapsing after minimal exercise. The concurrent megaoesophagus creates additional welfare burdens from recurrent regurgitation and aspiration pneumonia risk. Treatment with pyridostigmine can achieve good control in many dogs, but dosing requires careful titration and monitoring. Acquired MG can undergo spontaneous remission over months, providing hope for long-term resolution. During treatment, welfare management includes exercise restriction, upright feeding, and monitoring for aspiration pneumonia — all requiring significant owner commitment.