The following information comes from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (Joanne contacted one of the OFA vets directly for information) as well as internet research.

Another common Boxer condition suspected to be genetic, Spondylosis (also known as Spondylosis Deformans) is a condition of the spine. Osteophytes form between the vertebrae, essentially fusing the vertebrae together. Some studies show a higher incidence in females than males, and in heavier dogs. This condition is irreversible, and can be caused by genetic inheritance, or spinal injury.

The symptoms are: stiffness in the back, lameness in one or more limbs, change of gait, aggression, upset stomach (a stress reaction to the pain), depression or any combination of these. The symptoms may come and go, but steadily gets worse as the osteophytes grow. Severely affected animals may have atrophy of the muscles of the quarters since the osteophytes can compress the nerves to these muscles. The more severely affected dogs may also have loss of reflexes.

Diagnosis: spinal x-rays starting at 1 year of age. A clear x-ray at any age does NOT guarantee the dog will remain clear, or that he/she is not a carrier. Some dogs may appear normal at 1 year of age and yet may show changes by 4 to 5 years of age.

Spondylosis is not directly genetically linked to hip dysplasia but the incidence is higher of dogs having both conditions (dysplasia and spondylosis)...meaning, dogs with spondylosis are more likely to have hip dysplasia - these two conditions appear frequently together. OFA does not specifically register results for spondylosis but will notify ownes if hip x-ray submissions show any evidence of spondylosis. This does NOT mean that a dog who has clear hips is clear of spondylosis - this condition can show up in the upper neck or any area of the spine (therefore easy to miss on hip x-rays).

Since this is thought to be genetic, affected dogs should be removed from the breeding program.

Spondylosis Deformans in Boxers

Vet Info - Spondylosis

Radiographic Degenerative Findings in the Spine of Healthy Dogs