A test is available for degenerative myelopathy, a disease that affects dogs over five years old and is more common in certain breeds, primarily German Shepherds. The white matter of the thoracolumbar spinal cord degenerates, resulting in progressive weakness of the hind legs and an uncoordinated gait.
A DNA mutation has been identified as a major risk factor for the development of degenerative myelopathy. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive fashion. UC Davis has developed a test that owners can submit on their own. Follow the link to find out more:
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) | Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (ucdavis.edu)