What Is Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC)?

Exercise-induced collapse (EIC) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder seen in several dog breeds. It is caused by a mutation in the DNM1 gene (dynamin-1), which plays a crucial role in nerve signaling to muscles during intense exertion. Dogs with two copies of this mutation may develop episodes of muscle weakness and collapse when subjected to strenuous exercise and excitement. 

• Dogs appear completely normal at rest and typically show no signs between episodes. 

• To exhibit clinical signs, a dog must inherit two copies of the mutated gene (homozygous recessive). 

• Dogs with a single copy are carriers — they don’t usually show clinical signs but can pass the mutation to offspring. 

Signs & Symptoms of EIC

EIC typically presents during intense or prolonged exercise, especially when linked to high excitement or competitive activities (e.g., retrieving, agility, field trials). 

Common clinical findings include:

Early Signs

• Wobbly or “rocking” gait

• Wide-based stance

• Hind limb weakness progressing toward forelimbs

• Dragging hind feet

• Lack of coordination (ataxia) 

Collapse Episode

• Flaccid paralysis of limbs with inability to continue running

• Often conscious and alert during collapse (distinct from seizure)

• Episodes last ~5–25 minutes with return to normal afterward

• Elevated body temperature and panting are common but not diagnostic alone 

Less Common Signs

• Disorientation or confusion in ~10–25 % of cases 

• Seizures and rare fatal outcomes in some dogs if exercise continues despite weakness. 

 Diagnosis

Diagnosing EIC involves:

1. History & Clinical Signs

A thorough description of episodes (when they occur, what triggers them) is essential.

2. Rule Out Other Causes

Veterinarians will typically exclude:

• cardiac disease

• metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia)

• heat stroke/exhaustion

• orthopedic pain

• neurologic diseasesbefore concluding EIC. 

3. Genetic Testing

• A DNA test from a cheek swab or blood sample checks for the DNM1 mutation. 

• Results categorize dogs as:

  • Clear: no copies of mutation

  • Carrier: one copy (no clinical signs)

  • Affected: two copies (at risk of collapse) 

• Genetic testing is the gold standard for confirming susceptibility. 

Treatment & Management

There is no cure for EIC. The main strategies focus on prevention and safe physical activity:

Avoid Triggers

• Stop exercise immediately at the first sign of weakness

• Avoid extended strenuous activity

• Minimize excitement or competition training that pushes intensity

• Exercise in cooler conditions and avoid high heat/humidity when possible 

During an Episode

• Keep the dog calm and cool

• Offer water and shade

• Do not continue exercise — collapse severity increases if ignored 

Long-Term

• Dogs can live normal lives with mild exercise (short walks, gentle play)

• Breeding dogs should be tested to avoid producing affected puppies

• Some dog owners find that neutering (reducing excitement) might help tolerance, but evidence is anecdotal and not a standard management practice 

Prevalence & Breed Information — Bouvier des Flandres

EIC is most common in sporting breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, and Curly-Coated Retrievers, with up to 30–40 % carriers and a few percent affected in some Labrador populations. 

 Bouvier des Flandres

• The DNM1 mutation has been identified in Bouvier des Flandres dogs, meaning the mutation exists in the breed. 

• A Belgian study of ~107 European Bouviers found that ~3.5 % were carriers of the EIC mutation. 

• In early 2025, the Bouvier Health Foundation (BHF) began an inquiry into the prevalence of EIC in Bouviers in the U.S.  The BHF tested 28 unrelated Bouviers using DNA swabs at the National Speciality in September, 2025. Those results were analyzed along with previously tested Bouviers for a total sample population of 122.  The final outcome of all samples found 18 carriers (14.7% of the sample), 2 affected (1.64% of sample) and 102  normal.  This shows the risk gene at 9% of the population sampled compared to the 3.5% in Europe.  

Bottom line on prevalence: The EIC  gene has been found in Bouvier des Flandres and there are Bouvier dogs identified as carriers and with the disease. Fortunately, its occurrence is less common than in retrievers. However to fully understand the prevalence of EIC in Bouviers in the US more research and genetic data is needed.

 Takeaways

• EIC is a genetic, exercise-triggered collapse syndrome caused by a DNM1 mutation. 

• Signs include progressive limb weakness and collapse during intense activity, usually without pain or loss of consciousness. 

• Diagnosis is confirmed by genetic testing and ruling out other medical causes. 

• Management focuses on avoiding intense exercise triggers and safe, mild activity. 

• In Bouvier Des Flandres, the mutation is present and more genetic research needs to be done in the US to determine its prevalence.

EIC Articles/Helpful Links:

Watch this EIC Video to learn more  (links to video) 

European research paper: “Frequency estimation of disease-causing mutations in the Belgian population of some dog breeds: Part 2: retrievers and other breed types”  https://openjournals.ugent.be/vdt/article/id/75734/

What is Degenerative Myelopathy?

Degenerative myelopathy is a chronic, progressive condition in dogs characterized by the degeneration of the white matter of the spinal cord. The spinal cord’s role is to transmit nerve signals between the brain and the limbs — when it deteriorates, nerve communication becomes disrupted. DM typically begins later in life (often after about 8 years of age) and is most frequently seen in large or giant breeds, especially German Shepherd Dogs, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Boxers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. 

The disease often involves a genetic component. A mutation in the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene has been strongly associated with DM in many breeds. Being homozygous for the mutated form of this gene (having two copies) puts a dog at increased risk of developing DM, although not all genetically at-risk dogs will become clinically affected, and other genetic and environmental factors likely play a role. 

Recognizing Signs & Symptoms

DM typically progresses slowly and can be mistaken initially for arthritis or other orthopedic issues. Common signs include:

Early Signs

• Weakness in the hind limbs

• Unsteady, wobbly gait (ataxia)

• Difficulty rising from a lying or sitting position

• Dragging hind feet (often with worn nails or scuffed paws)

• Hind legs that cross or knuckle when walking 

Progressive Symptoms

As the disease advances:

• Hind limb weakness becomes more pronounced

• Dog may lose the ability to walk without support

• Muscle atrophy (wasting)

• Urinary and fecal incontinence

• Eventual involvement of the forelimbs and difficulty with eating or breathing in advanced stages 

It’s important to note that DM is not usually painful in itself, although secondary injuries (scraped paws, muscle strain) may cause discomfort. 

How Degenerative Myelopathy Is Diagnosed

There is no single test that definitively diagnoses DM in a living dog. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of:

1. Clinical Signs & Neurological Exam
   A veterinarian evaluates gait abnormalities, reflexes, and hind limb strength.

2. Excluding Other Causes
   Imaging tests (such as X-rays, MRI, or CT) and spinal fluid analysis are used to rule out other causes of spinal cord dysfunction such as intervertebral disc disease or tumors. 

3. Genetic Testing
   DNA testing for the SOD1 mutation is available. A dog with two copies of the mutated gene has a higher risk of developing clinical DM. However, a positive genetic test doesn’t confirm the disease, and a negative test doesn’t entirely rule it out. Genetic results should always be interpreted in the context of clinical signs and other diagnostics. 

4. Diagnosis of Exclusion
   Because other treatable conditions can mimic DM, thorough testing is necessary before making this presumptive diagnosis. 

Treatment & Management

There is currently no cure for degenerative myelopathy, and no therapy has been proven to stop or reverse the disease’s progression. However, supportive care can improve quality of life and may help maintain mobility longer:

Supportive Therapies

• Physical therapy: Regular controlled exercise, range-of-motion exercises, strength training, and hydrotherapy (water therapy) help preserve muscle mass and mobility. 

• Mobility aids: Harnesses, slings, and dog carts can assist with walking and reduce strain on weakened limbs. 

• Home care: Soft bedding, padded surfaces, and anti-slip flooring reduce risk of injury. Owners often need to manage hygiene for dogs that become incontinent. 

Prognosis

DM is ultimately fatal. Most dogs become non-ambulatory or severely disabled within 6–24 months of symptom onset, although careful management and physical therapy may extend mobility and life quality. 

Occurrence in Bouvier des Flandres

Unlike some breeds with well-documented risk, data on degenerative myelopathy in the Bouvier des Flandres is limited. However:

• According to breed health resources, degenerative myelopathy is listed among genetic disease markers identified for Bouviers alongside conditions such as exercise-induced collapse and bobtail syndrome, indicating that the disease can occur in the breed and has been recognized by breed health organizations. 

• The SOD1 gene mutation associated with DM has been documented across many breeds, which suggests that virtually any breed, including the Bouvier, could carry the mutation and be at risk — although breed-specific prevalence is not as well characterized as it is for German Shepherds or Corgis. 

• According to the OFA Bouvier des Flandres Health Survey one bouvier has been diagnosed with DM.  Also while researching DNA to find  a genetic marker for glaucoma in Bouvier’s the University of Missouri  found the SOD1 gene in it’s bouvier sample. 

Because of this, responsible breeders and owners of Bouvier des Flandres may consider genetic screening for the SOD1 mutation as part of health testing, especially in lines with a history of neurological symptoms. Discussing breed-specific health panels with your veterinarian or a canine genetic counselor can provide better insight. 

Summary

Canine degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease most often affecting older, large breed dogs. It begins with hind limb weakness and coordination problems, eventually leading to paralysis. Diagnosis is presumptive and involves ruling out other causes. While there’s no cure, supportive care — primarily physical therapy and mobility assistance — can improve comfort and extend functionality. Although DM is best documented in breeds like German Shepherds and Corgis, genetic markers and breed health data indicate it can occur in Bouvier des Flandres, and genetic testing may help assess risk. 

Canine Degenerative Myelopathy (CDM) Articles/Helpful Links:

https://www.akcchf.org/new-research/studying-potential-treatments/