Hi there, I’m Dr. Andrew Jones. Today, I’m going to dive into a heartbreaking condition that affects many dogs—Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). If you’re here because you want to understand more about this disease and how to help your dog, you’re in the right place. I’ll share some insights into what DM is, how to spot the early signs, and some natural treatment options that can help manage the condition.

What Is Degenerative Myelopathy?

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a progressive disease of the spinal cord that primarily impacts older dogs, especially large breeds like German Shepherds. It’s similar to ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in people, and unfortunately, there’s no known cure.

In DM, the myelin sheath—the protective covering around the spinal cord’s nerves—begins to break down. This breakdown disrupts the nerve signals from the brain to the legs, leading to weakness and eventually paralysis. Dogs with DM gradually lose their ability to walk, and it’s a heartbreaking process for any dog parent.

Early Signs of Degenerative Myelopathy

The first signs of DM in dogs can be subtle. Often, it starts with a slight difficulty in walking, particularly in the hind legs. You may notice your dog is a bit unsteady or has trouble maintaining their balance. Many of the early signs are confused with hip dysplasia, especially in larger breeds.

One of the key signs to watch for is a condition called “knuckling." When I perform a simple test on my dog Tula, I bend her rear paws under, and she quickly flips them back into place, as her brain sends the signal to correct the position. In dogs with DM, however, the paw stays folded over, indicating a loss of proper nerve function.

Is It Painful?

One important thing to remember about DM is that it’s not a painful condition. You can check your dog’s hips and spine for pain, but you’ll find that there’s no discomfort. The real issue lies in the loss of nerve function, not in pain.

Natural Treatment Options for DM

While there’s no cure for Degenerative Myelopathy, there are some natural treatments that can help manage symptoms and possibly slow the progression of the disease.

1. Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamine)

Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve health and regeneration. It’s a water-soluble B vitamin, meaning it’s safe and can’t cause harm. In my experience, Vitamin B12 has been effective in supporting nerve function. For dogs weighing around 20 lbs, I recommend a daily dose of about a quarter of a 1,000 mcg tablet.

2. Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion’s Mane is a medicinal mushroom that shows promise in stimulating nerve growth. It helps repair the myelin sheath and promotes nerve regeneration. This can be a bit on the expensive side, but it’s one of the few natural products that can actively help the healing process. A good starting point would be a 100 mg dose per 10-20 lbs of body weight daily.

3. Cannabinoids (CBG & CBC)

Cannabis compounds like CBG (Cannabigerol) and CBC (Cannabichromene) are becoming exciting areas of research for neuroprotection and nerve regeneration. These cannabinoids have shown promise in helping regenerate nerve tissue and protect the spinal cord. I recommend a cannabinoid blend, such as Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Cannabinoid Blend, for dogs with DM. The typical dosage is 3 mg per 10 lbs of body weight twice daily.

4. Curcumin & Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)

Curcumin, combined with essential fatty acids like krill oil, can be very beneficial for dogs with DM. Curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and EFAs are crucial for brain and nerve health. A daily dose of 250 mg of curcumin per 50 lbs of body weight, along with 500 mg of krill oil per 20 lbs, can help reduce inflammation and protect the spinal cord.

Conventional Veterinary Treatments

Though I prefer natural treatments, some veterinary interventions may also help slow the progression of DM.

1. Aminocaproic Acid

This drug is typically used to treat bleeding disorders, but it’s also included in some DM treatment protocols to help reduce myelin sheath breakdown.

2. Prednisone (Corticosteroids)

Prednisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory that can help slow the disease’s progression. It’s typically prescribed by your vet and can offer some relief, especially in the early stages of the disease.

3. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

NAC is an antioxidant that can penetrate the spinal cord and may help reduce free radical damage to nerve cells. It’s worth considering as part of your dog’s treatment plan.

4. Antioxidants (Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and Astaxanthin)

Vitamin E and C are well-known antioxidants that can protect nerve cells. Astaxanthin, an antioxidant found in krill oil, is 500 times more potent than Vitamin E and 6,000 times more potent than Vitamin C. It’s an excellent addition to any DM treatment plan, though it can be quite costly.

Rehabilitation and Alternative Therapies

Physical therapy plays a huge role in managing DM. Keeping your dog moving as much as possible is essential for maintaining muscle strength and joint function.

Physical Therapy

Daily walks, even if they’re shorter and slower, can make a big difference. Swimming is particularly beneficial, as it allows your dog to maintain strength and flexibility without putting pressure on the joints.

Acupressure and Acupuncture

Acupressure can be a great addition to a DM treatment plan. Two points I recommend are the Baihui point (located at the base of the tail) and the GV4 point (found between the 13th rib and the spine). Regular acupressure sessions can help stimulate circulation and improve nerve function.

Final Thoughts

Degenerative Myelopathy is a tough diagnosis for any dog parent, but the key is to stay proactive and focused on improving your dog’s quality of life. By using a combination of natural treatments, conventional therapies, and physical rehabilitation, you can help your dog stay comfortable and active for as long as possible.

If my dog were diagnosed with DM, I would start with the natural remedies I’ve discussed—Vitamin B12, Lion’s Mane, and cannabinoids—while also incorporating physical therapy and acupressure. Every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another, so it’s essential to tailor the treatment plan to your dog’s specific needs.

Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe to Veterinary Secrets for more helpful tips. If you’re interested in more information or want a copy of my free book, click the link below! Stay strong and keep your pup moving.

Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Omega 3 Formula

My Ultimate Omega 3 Formula, made with Antarctic Krill Oil, is packed with EPA and DHA to support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. It’s great for dogs with DM, helping with mobility and reducing joint pain.

Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Cannabinoid Blend

This full-spectrum CBD blend, made from organic hemp oil, helps reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and support brain function. It’s perfect for easing the discomfort associated with DM and promoting overall wellness.

Both of these supplements provide natural support to improve your pet’s quality of life, especially when dealing with conditions like Degenerative Myelopathy.