The term myelopathy refers to a non-specific change or disruption of the spinal cord. In Afghan Hounds, myelopathy is a recessively inherited condition. If only one parent has the gene, the puppies may be carriers but will show no symptoms. If both parents are carriers of the myelopathy gene but neither show symptoms of the disease, there is a 1 in 4 chance for each offspring to develop myelopathy. If a carrier is mated to a dog with symptoms, puppies have a 1 in 2 chance of offspring developing this condition.

This condition is also known as necrotic myelopathy or leukodystrophy. 

Afghan Hound myelopathy generally begins when your dog is just a few months old. The initial symptoms are rear leg numbness, partial paralysis and stumbling. The symptoms can quickly spread to the front legs and will eventually result in total paralysis.

Afghan Hound myelopathy is a recessively inherited disorder.

Your vet will perform a physical examination and a complete neurological work up of your dog. Sometimes, however the diagnosis can only be confirmed by examination after death.

There is no treatment for Afghan Hound myelopathy.

A careful study of the breeding pairs and family histories can assist in prevention Afghan Hound myelopathy. In addition, you should not acquire a dog who has a family history of this condition.

No, you cannot contract Afghan Hound myelopathy from your dog.