OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
Here is the latest finding about DM by the OFA
https://www.ofa.org/diseases/dna-tested-diseases/dm
OFA Breed Statistics of DM by OFA research
Breed Testing Statement from OFA
Although any dog can be tested for Degenerative Myelopathy, it is possible that the genetic background that predominates in some breeds prevents the development of symptoms even in dogs testing affected (at risk). At this time we (OFA) are reluctant to recommend testing for members of breeds where the University of Missouri has not yet proven susceptibility to DM through microscopic examination of spinal cords from deceased dogs that exhibited symptoms of the disease. The required evidence of association between the genetic mutation and actual spinal cord evaluations has only been proven in the breeds listed:
What is DM? The dog equivalent of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, DM is a progressive degenerative disorder of the spinal cord. Because the nerves that control the hind limbs are the first to degenerate, the most common clinical signs are back muscle wasting and gait abnormalities.
What does the result mean if a Cavalier inherited one copy of the variant SOD1 gene tested?
This result will not impact a Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Health.
What does the result mean if a Cavalier inherited both copies of the variant SOD1 gene tested?
Research indicates that this genetic variant will not increase the risk that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels will develop this condition.
Scientific Basis
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have been included in research studies or have had follow-up by our experts that indicate that this genetic variant will not increase the risk of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels developing clinical disease. It is possible that the genetic background that predominates in some breeds prevents the development of symptoms even in dogs testing affected (at risk).
Here is the latest finding about DM by the OFA
https://www.ofa.org/diseases/dna-tested-diseases/dm
OFA Breed Statistics of DM by OFA research
Breed Testing Statement from OFA
Although any dog can be tested for Degenerative Myelopathy, it is possible that the genetic background that predominates in some breeds prevents the development of symptoms even in dogs testing affected (at risk). At this time we (OFA) are reluctant to recommend testing for members of breeds where the University of Missouri has not yet proven susceptibility to DM through microscopic examination of spinal cords from deceased dogs that exhibited symptoms of the disease. The required evidence of association between the genetic mutation and actual spinal cord evaluations has only been proven in the breeds listed:
- American Eskimo Dogs
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Borzoi
- Boxers
- Cardigan Welsh Corgi
- Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
- German Shepherd Dog
- Golden Retriever
- Great Pyrenees
- Kerry Blue Terriers
- Pembroke Welsh Corgis
- Poodle
- Pug
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers
- Wire Fox Terrier
What is DM? The dog equivalent of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, DM is a progressive degenerative disorder of the spinal cord. Because the nerves that control the hind limbs are the first to degenerate, the most common clinical signs are back muscle wasting and gait abnormalities.
What does the result mean if a Cavalier inherited one copy of the variant SOD1 gene tested?
This result will not impact a Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Health.
What does the result mean if a Cavalier inherited both copies of the variant SOD1 gene tested?
Research indicates that this genetic variant will not increase the risk that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels will develop this condition.
Scientific Basis
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have been included in research studies or have had follow-up by our experts that indicate that this genetic variant will not increase the risk of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels developing clinical disease. It is possible that the genetic background that predominates in some breeds prevents the development of symptoms even in dogs testing affected (at risk).
Karen Dennehy & Natalija Zeljic
Small World Puppies (Taurunum Angels Kennel)
Small World Puppies (Taurunum Angels Kennel)