Mollet, Céline Anna (2025). The bregmatic fontanelle alone is an unreliable indicator of health in Pomeranian and other toy-sized dogs. (Thesis). Universität Bern, Bern
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Abstract
Swiss Animal Welfare Ordinance prohibit breeding dogs with persistent fontanelles. In toy-sized breeds, closed fontanelles are important for breeding selection. MRI frequently reveals anomalies such as Chiari-like malformations, hydrocephalus, or syringomyelia in these dogs. Whether these findings are associated with persistent fontanelles is unclear. This cross-sectional study investigated the relationship between persistent fontanelles and craniocervical anomalies. Forty-one toy dogs underwent clinical and neurological examinations and 3T-MRI. Based on ultrasound of the bregmatic fontanelle, dogs were grouped into cases and controls. Groups were compared using t-tests, linear regression, correlation, chi-square tests, and Fisher’s exact test. Closed fontanelles were present in 53,7% and persistent ones in 46,3% of dogs. Persistent fontanelles were more common in dogs with lower body weight and shorter skulls, but unrelated to age. Fontanelle status had no effect on clinical or neurological findings. Dogs with persistent fontanelles had a 3,7-fold higher risk of syringomyelia (p = 0,047). Enlarged lateral ventricles increased the risk 15-fold (p < 0,01). No association was found between fontanelle status and Chiari-like malformations or ventriculomegaly. The absence of persistent fontanelles alone does not appear to be a reliable breeding criterion.
| Item Type: | Thesis |
|---|---|
| Dissertation Type: | Single |
| Date of Defense: | 28 July 2025 |
| Subjects: | 500 Science > 590 Animals (Zoology) 600 Technology > 610 Medicine & health |
| Institute / Center: | 05 Veterinary Medicine > Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine (DKV) |
| Depositing User: | Hammer Igor |
| Date Deposited: | 21 Dec 2025 10:07 |
| Last Modified: | 21 Dec 2025 10:07 |
| URI: | https://boristheses.unibe.ch/id/eprint/6985 |
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