Mechanical factors affecting the occurrence of intervertebral disc calcification in the dachshund--a population study

In a population sample comprising 48 standard wirehaired dachshunds, the occurrence of intervertebral disc calcification was determined by plain spinal radiography. Body dimensions of the dogs were measured and information obtained from owners about exercise patterns, including stair climbing, and the relation of these variables to the number of calcified discs was analysed by logistic regression. In the Danish population of wirehaired dachshunds, the prevalence of disc calcification was estimated at 77%. The spinal distribution of calcified discs is similar amongst different populations, while the prevalence varies significantly. Most types of exercise included in the variable 'duration of exercise' as well as moderate stair climbing seemed to reduce the rate of occurrence of disc calcification. The effects of moderate stair climbing (OR = 0.34) and duration of exercise (OR = 0.52) were statistically significant and the effects appear to be additive. Running next to a bicycle was the only type of exercise with a positive association with the number of calcified discs. This was, however, not significant. Effects of body conformation, including absolute and relative body measurements, were not found.