NEW! February 11, 2026
The University of Missouri Canine Genetics Laboratory is conducting a study to identify genetic risk factors that determine whether German Shepherd dogs will develop Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). We are currently recruiting dogs older than 8 years hat have tested at-risk for DM with the SOD1 test but HAVE NOT show clinical signs of DM. If you can help with this study by providing a blood sample from your dog, please contact us at MUCVMK9genetics@missouri.edu.
A GSDCA-related study on DM that started in 2021, stalled because we were not able to get dogs in our older control group: dogs over the age of 8 years and SOD1 homozygous (“At Risk”).
Dr. Martin Katz has taken over for the late Dr Gary Johnson. Dr. Katz has discussed our study with Dr Kerstin Linblad-Toh and Joan Coates. The current goal is to try to get at least 8-10 dogs that meet the over 8 year old criteria.
