Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
When do dachshunds develop spinal disk calcification seen on X-rays
By Jensen, V F & Arnbjerg, J·Published in Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association·2001·Department of Clinical Studies·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Development of intervertebral disk calcification in the dachshund: a prospective longitudinal radiographic study.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 40 dachshunds underwent regular X-rays from 6 months to 2 years old to check for intervertebral disk calcification, which can lead to back problems. The study found that many dogs showed signs of calcification between 6 and 18 months, but this seemed to stabilize by 2 years. Interestingly, some dogs had calcified disks that later showed improvement without any symptoms. This suggests that while calcification is common in young dachshunds, it may not always lead to health issues. Regular check-ups around 2 years of age are recommended for monitoring.
People also search for: dachshund back problems · intervertebral disk calcification in dogs · dachshund health check at 2 years
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.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11361121/