Motor Neuron Diseases in dogs

Species: Dog
Condition: Motor Neuron Diseases
Organ System: Respiratory

Spinal muscular atrophy is a collective term for a group of motor neuron diseases. Motor neurons are the nerve cells which transmit electrical impulses to the muscles in order to generate movement. The exact symptoms of these disorders depend on the specific condition however generally your dog will have difficulty in supporting their own weight, degraded reflexes, an awkward gait, and a loss of muscle mass. These diseases are currently incurable and with the exception of the German Shepherd they will also worsen over time. Treatment will consist of keeping your dog comfortable until they need to be put to sleep.

Breeds exposed to Motor Neuron Diseases – Research Reference
Boston Terrier Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Dalmatian Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Chihuahua Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Pug Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Boston Terrier – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Chihuahua – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Dalmatian – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Pug – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Samoyed – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Australian Shepherd – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
British Bulldog – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Samoyed Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Australian Shepherd Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
British Bulldog Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)

Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine

To learn more about Motor Neuron Diseases or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.