title: Development of intervertebral disk calcification in the dachshund: a prospective longitudinal radiographic study.
abstract: Plain spinal radiography was performed in 40 dachshunds at regular intervals from 6 or 12 months of age to 2 years of age. A follow-up study at 3 to 4 years of age included 12 dogs. High incidence rates of intervertebral disk calcification were seen at 6 to 18 months of age. The number of dogs affected and number of calcified disks seemed to reach a steady level or a maximum at about 24 to 27 months of age. Dissolution of previously calcified disks without clinical signs was demonstrated, causing decreasing numbers of visibly calcified disks after 2 years of age. Radiographic examination for calcified intervertebral disks in the dachshund is recommended at 24 to 30 months of age for heritability studies and selective breeding.
authors.affiliation: Radiology, Department of Clinical Studies, Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Copenhagen, Denmark.
authors.forename: V F
authors.initials: VF
authors.lastname: Jensen
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Arnbjerg
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001947:Breeding; D002114:Calcinosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D003718:Denmark / Q000453:epidemiology; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D015994:Incidence; D007403:Intervertebral Disc; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography; D013122:Spinal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000662:veterinary*