UK scientists seek answers to spinal disease affecting corgis

2026-03-25 - 00:11

Researchers hope that by learning more about degenerative myelopathy, corgis will get to spend more time alongside their humans. (Envato Elements pic) PETALING JAYA: Corgis are loved around the world for their stubby legs, fluffy backsides and cheerful personalities. But the breed also faces a serious health threat that scientists in the United Kingdom are now trying to better understand. Researchers and veterinary specialists at the University of Glasgow have launched a study into degenerative myelopathy (DM), a progressive spinal disease that affects several dog breeds, including Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh corgis. The condition usually appears in middle-aged dogs, usually about six to eight years old. It often begins subtly, with weakness in the hind legs or a slightly wobbly gait that may seem harmless at first. Over time, however, the disease gradually damages the spinal cord, causing worsening mobility problems. As it progresses, affected dogs may eventually lose the ability to stand or walk without assistance. For many owners, the emotional toll can be profound: DM slowly robs dogs of their independence, leading their humans to have to make difficult decisions. Sadly, the disease remains difficult to diagnose and impossible to treat. Early symptoms often resemble other spinal conditions such as slipped discs, and in most cases the disease can only be confirmed after a dog has died. This uncertainty is one reason the scientists are keen to learn more. The Glasgow team is currently recruiting corgis across the UK to take part in the research, with owners of both healthy dogs and those showing possible symptoms invited to participate. The scientists hope to better understand the genetic factors that may contribute to DM. They believe the disease is linked to mutations in a gene known as SOD1, which has been associated with DM in other breeds, including German shepherds. Another gene, called SP110, may also play a role. Archie, a Pembroke Welsh corgi, with Bunnada Siriporn, a PhD researcher involved with the DM project. (University of Glasgow pic) Carrying these genetic mutations does not necessarily mean a dog will develop the disease: some dogs with the mutations remain healthy throughout their lives, suggesting other biological factors may be at work. To gather more clues, the researchers will collect DNA samples from participating dogs using a quick and painless cheek swab. Blood samples may also be analysed to look for protein markers that could offer further insight. By studying genetic material from a larger population of corgis, the scientists hope to gain a clearer picture of what triggers DM and how it progresses. In the long term, the findings may also guide responsible breeding decisions aimed at reducing the risk of passing it on to future generations. For owners of corgis and other vulnerable breeds, such progress could make a meaningful difference. As treatment options do not yet exist, the experts believe that uncovering the biological mechanisms behind the disease is the first step towards finding ways to better manage – or even prevent – it. For cherished corgis, that could one day mean a longer life spent doing what it does best: trotting happily beside its human companions.