Research call to corgi owners to investigate degenerative spinal condition
Published: 12 March 2026
Researchers and veterinary experts at the University of Glasgow are to undertake a new study to better understand a devastating, degenerative spinal condition in corgis
Researchers and veterinary experts at the University of Glasgow are to undertake a new study to better understand a devastating, degenerative spinal condition in corgis.
Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a debilitating disease of the spinal cord affecting various breeds, including corgis. The condition normally presents in middle age, at around 6-8 years, with signs of weak hind limbs and a progressively wobbly gait. Over time the condition progresses to a stage where, sadly, the dog’s quality of life is materially impacted, and elective euthanasia is considered the caring outcome.
Despite the significant impact degenerative myelopathy can have on affected dogs and their owners, it is not currently possible to diagnose or treat the condition. Clinical signs are similar to other spinal conditions such as disc disease and, currently, definitive diagnosis can only be made by post-mortem examination.
The Glasgow research team are now looking for owners of healthy Kennel Club registered Pembroke or Cardigan Welsh Corgis, or those that are showing some signs of the condition, to take part in the new study.
The research is funded by the Welsh Corgi Rescue Service, the Royal Thai Government and is carried out in collaboration with Laboklin, Laboratory for Clinical Diagnostics.
Kate Stalin, Professor of Veterinary Neurology, University of Glasgow, said: “The funding for this new project enables us to continue our research in degenerative myelopathy. Previously we focused more on German Shepherds with the disease but there are some interesting genetic nuances in Corgis which we are keen to explore.”
Degenerative myelopathy is thought to be caused by genetic changes and is currently associated with a mutation of a gene called SOD1. Researchers believe a second genetic variation, a gene called SP110, may also be a factor that contributes to the development of the condition.
However, establishing the presence of either of these gene mutations in corgis is not considered a definitive diagnostic test, as not all dogs with mutations will go on to develop the condition. The University of Glasgow research team hope that by gathering more genetic data from corgis around the UK, they can make further insights into degenerative myelopathy and its mechanisms.
Professor Rodrigo Gutierrez Quintana, Professor of Comparative Neurology at the University of Glasgow, said: “Degenerative myelopathy is a debilitating disease in corgis and other breeds, which causes a slow decline in the function of the hind limbs until unfortunately the dog is unable to walk without assistance. When dogs present with the first signs of the disease it can be a devastating time for owners, with difficult decisions ahead.
“Our hope is by carrying out in-depth research into the possible genetic factors behind degenerative myelopathy we can shed more light on the condition and make steps towards treatment options and diagnosis.”
Genetic material will be collected via a simple cheek swab and analysed for the presence of mutations in the SOD1 and SP110 genes. The swab will be performed either by an owner’s vet, or by a vet associated with the project at a suitable location.
The research team may also ask for permission to request residual blood – if a dog requires blood to be taken for a separate clinical investigation – to be used as part of the research project. In addition to genetic material, blood will allow researchers to look for novel protein markers that could provide further insight into the condition.
While genetic mutations have a strong association with degenerative myelopathy, the cellular processes underlying the disease remain unknown. In the future it is possible that an awareness of the genetic status may influence breeding decisions and help to eliminate the condition within the corgis.
Dr Mark McLaughlin, Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Neuroscience and co-lead on the project, said: “For the owners of these much-loved breeds, degenerative myelopathy can be a devastating prospect. Our project – so far, the largest of its kind into the condition in corgis within the UK– will shed more light on the disease and potentially offer key cellular information that could help with the development of treatments.”
Stan Chandler, Chairman of the Welsh Corgi Rescue Service, said: “We are delighted to be able to part-fund the valuable research into Degenerative Myelopathy being investigated at the University of Glasgow. It is our fervent hope that their ability to test a population of dogs may help to eradicate this debilitating disease.”
Enquiries: ali.howard@glasgow.ac.uk or elizabeth.mcmeekin@glasgow.ac.uk
First published: 12 March 2026