Myotonia(MC)
Also known as: Myotonia Congenita · Congenital Myotonia · Myotonie · Erbliche Muskelsteifheit · CLCN1-related myotonia
Overview
What it is
Myotonia is an inherited muscle disorder where a dog's muscles are unable to relax normally after contracting. This is caused by a genetic defect in the electrical channels of the muscle cells, leading to constant over-excitement of the muscle tissue. Because the muscles remain tense instead of releasing, it directly impacts the dog's ability to move smoothly.
How it presents
Symptoms usually become visible during puppyhood, presenting as noticeable muscle stiffness after rest, a stiff or stilted gait, and difficulty rising. Affected dogs may also develop unusually prominent muscles and experience trouble swallowing or breathing.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, but symptoms can be managed lifelong using daily medications that help stabilize the muscle membranes. Ongoing veterinary care and long-term drug therapy typically cost between €2,000 and €7,000 over the dog's lifetime.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Myotonia?
Myotonia is an inherited muscle disorder where a dog's muscles are unable to relax normally after contracting. This is caused by a genetic defect in the electrical channels of the muscle cells, leading to constant over-excitement of the muscle tissue. Because the muscles remain tense instead of releasing, it directly impacts the dog's ability to move smoothly.
How is Myotonia tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Chow Chow, Miniature Schnauzer, Schnoodle.