Myasthenia gravis is a disease impacting the connection between nerve cells and the muscles these nerve cells control. Myasthenia gravis results in an inability of the muscles to function properly.

Symptoms of myasthenia gravis include weakness in the following areas: skeletal muscles, facial muscles, eye muscles and the muscles that surround the esophagus. When the esophageal muscles are affected, a condition known as megaesophagus often occurs.

Myasthenia gravis may be an inherited birth defect (congenital), or it may be acquired later in life as the result of an autoimmune disorder which means the body’s own defense mechanisms attack normal cells in the body.

Myasthenia gravis can be diagnosed by a blood test.

There is no treatment for the congenital form of myasthenia gravis. However, many cases of congenital myasthenia gravis correct themselves over time. Acquired myasthenia gravis may be treated with medications that inhibit the immune system's attack on the nerve cells.

To safeguard against congenital myasthenia gravis, do not breed dogs with this condition. Likewise, you should not acquire a dog who has a family history of congenital myasthenia gravis. There is no prevention for acquired myasthenia gravis.

No, you cannot develop myasthenia gravis from your dog.