Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, incurable spinal cord disease primarily affecting German Shepherds and similar breeds, requiring compassionate management as mobility declines.
Degenerative myelopathy presents unique welfare challenges because the initial stages are painless while the animal is fully cognitively aware of its progressive loss of function. Dogs experience the frustration of losing mobility while remaining mentally engaged. As the disease progresses to paraplegia, dogs require intensive nursing care including bladder expression, pressure sore prevention, and physical assistance. Quality of life assessment becomes increasingly complex as the dog loses physical function while retaining alertness. End-of-life decisions require careful welfare assessment balancing the absence of pain against the loss of mobility, dignity, and normal function. Genetic testing allows breeders to avoid producing affected puppies.