These photos are of "A" graded Griffon Bruxellois (The Grading and Certification generously provided by Dr Clare Rusbridge, Stone Lion Veterinary Clinic, London UK)
They are graded with no SM, and only mild, or little if any CM. They show clearly 'more back skull' with depth and length and occiput, and a clear 'corner'

This is a photo of an "Affected" Griffon Bruxellois, this dog only became midly symptomatic at 4.5 years of age (after a very successful show career and having puppies already on the ground) His mild symptoms of scoliosis and neck scratching are gradually worsening, but so far respond to anti inflammatory drugs.
This dog is clippered very short, to more clearly show that he has no depth and a short back skull, with very little occiput.

This is a photo of an "Affected" Griffon Bruxellois, this dog only became midly symptomatic at 4.5 years of age (after a very successful show career and having puppies already on the ground) His mild symptoms of scoliosis and neck scratching are gradually worsening, but so far respond to anti inflammatory drugs.
This dog is clippered very short, to more clearly show that he has no depth and a short back skull, with very little occiput.

Calipers are a useful tool for fairly accurately measuring the size of the head. (can also be performed by breeders themselves) The method used so far:
Snugly nestle "curved leg' calipers in between the eyes at the front of
the skull, and measure to the rear of the skull where it meets the neck, compare this measurment to the width of the skull (measured from one zygomatic arch crest to the other) Using MRI'd dogs for a 'base',
several breeders have found the Affected CM/SM dogs measure shorter than wide, and the "SM Clear" dogs measure more equal, or better still, longer than wide.

Only an MRI can definitively diagnose CM/SM. This article is not compiled to diagnose SM or replace MRI's or veterinary advice. Neither is it offered as a proven scientific theory, rather a preliminary observation which may be disproved on detailed scientific research, as we have used only 18 dogs in this testing so far. However it is hoped that these aspects might assist breeders in assessing which of their kennel may be best suited to spend their 'designated MRI funds' on.

Thankfully there is much scientific research being done in various countries towards understanding all the contributing factors for this most complicated disease. A vital contribution is the genome study which aims to identify the gene/s involved and thus understanding of the underlying pathogenic mechanisms for better diagnosis, prognosis an clinical management.
If you want to assist with current research follow this link

A big thank you Dr Clare Rusbridge, PhD, Stone Lion Veterinary Clinic, London.