Deterioration of the hind end in dogs is most commonly caused by degenerative myelopathy, also known as progressive rear limb weakness. This condition can occur in all large breed dogs, though it is most prominently diagnosed in German shepherds.
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Definition
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Degenerative myelopathy is a condition which attacks the central nervous system; the neural tissues of the spine, specifically the myelin and white matter axons, begin to break down or disappear. Though this deterioration occurs to some degree in the entire spine, it is most prominent in the thoracolumbar area near the tail.
Symptoms
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According to the American Boxer Club, symptoms present in four stages of degeneration: First, the dog begins to drag its toes, resulting in damage to the toenails. Second, the dog may begin to cross its back legs when it walks. This is the result of instability in the side to side movement of the hips. Third, the dog experiences loss of hip control, instability and severe wobbling of the hind quarter. And finally, there is a total loss of hind end control, resulting in dragging the hind end.
Prognosis
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Total-German-Shepherd.com and The American Boxer Club both note that there is no known cure for degenerative myelopathy.
Treatment
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According to the Maybeck Animal Hospital, many veterinarians suggest a combination of exercise and vitamin supplementation to slow hind end deterioration, but notes that it is important for owners to recognize when euthanasia is the best option for affected pets.
Causes
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Transmission of the disease, as demonstrated by its rate of occurrence in the German shepherd breed, is primarily genetic. Maybeck Animal Hospital references a body of research that also suggests that it may be linked to autoimmune conditions.
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