Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive spinal cord disease causing paralysis in dogs, with welfare implications around mobility, adaptation, and end-of-life decision-making.
Early-stage DM causes stumbling and weakness but minimal pain; welfare at this stage can be maintained with exercise modification and mobility aids. As paralysis advances, dogs require support harnesses, wheelchairs, and bladder expression. Faecal and urinary incontinence poses hygiene challenges and requires attentive care. Dogs with good owner support adapt well to wheelchairs and often maintain strong engagement with life. End-of-life assessment should focus on quality of life indicators: interest in food, interaction, and absence of distress rather than mobility alone.