The short version
Myopathies are diseases that primarily cause damage to muscles or muscle tissues. They may be present at birth or occur due to nutritional imbalances, injury, metabolic disturbances, cancer, or ingestion of a poisonous substance. Myositis refers to an inflammatory reaction in muscle. Common causes include infections, parasitic diseases, and immune-mediated conditions.
Labrador Retriever Myopathy
Labrador retriever myopathy is a muscle disease of unknown cause that is present at birth in some Labrador Retrievers. The condition appears to be inherited and has been known to occur in both yellow and black Labradors. Signs become noticeable at less than 5 months of age and include wasting away of muscle, stunted growth, and weakness. These signs progressively worsen until the animal reaches maturity (between 6 and 12 months), when they stabilize. Animals may have a normal life span. A definite diagnosis usually requires a urine test, muscle biopsy, and electromyography. There is no effective treatment, but warm housing and supplementation with L-carnitine may improve the comfort of affected dogs.
Great Dane Myopathy
An inherited muscle disorder occurs in young Great Danes and has been reported in England, Australia, and Canada. Signs include muscle tremors after exercise, weakness, and muscle wasting. Blood tests, electromyography (a test that records the electrical activity of muscles), and a muscle biopsy can confirm the disorder. The only treatment is supportive, to try to minimize signs.
Fibrotic Myopathy
Fibrotic myopathy is an uncommon progressive disorder that leads to degeneration of the thigh muscles. The cause is not known. Affected muscles are characterized by a permanent, abnormal tightening. The outlook for recovery is guarded.
Myositis Ossificans
Myositis ossificans is a muscle disorder in which noncancerous bony deposits appear in the muscles and connective tissue. The cause is unknown. The disorder frequently affects tissues near the hip joint in Doberman Pinschers. It may be related to a bleeding disorder (von Willebrand’s disease) in these dogs. Surgical removal of the bony mass is usually helpful.
Polymyositis
Polymyositis is an inflammatory muscle disorder in adult dogs that affects the entire body. It may be associated with immune-mediated disorders, such as lupus erythematosus or myasthenia gravis. The condition can have a sudden onset, or it may be recurring and progressive. Signs include depression, lack of energy, weakness, weight loss, lameness, muscle tenderness or pain, and wasting away of muscle. Blood tests, electromyography, and muscle biopsies are used to diagnose the condition. Corticosteroids are generally recommended for treatment; however, other drugs that suppress the immune system may also be used. The outlook for recovery is favorable, although signs sometimes reappear.
Frequently asked questions
Muscle disorders dogs?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. Myopathies are diseases that primarily cause damage to muscles or muscle tissues. They may be present at birth or occur due to nutritional imbalances… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
Muscle disease dog?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. Myopathies are diseases that primarily cause damage to muscles or muscle tissues. They may be present at birth or occur due to nutritional imbalances… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
Muscular disease dog?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. Myopathies are diseases that primarily cause damage to muscles or muscle tissues. They may be present at birth or occur due to nutritional imbalances… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.