Spondylocostal Dysostosis is an inherited skeletal disorder affecting dogs. Puppies with this condition are born dead or die shortly after birth. Affected puppies will have multiple skeletal abnormalities of the spinal column and ribs and their hindquarters are less developed than their forequarters. These abnormalities cause the spinal column to be shortened and give them a comma-like shape. They may also display other congenital abnormalities such as umbilical hernias and cleft palates.