Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

When the elbow joint does not grow to fit properly.

At a glance

What is it?: Abnormal development of the elbow joint, usually hereditary.
Typical signs: Lameness at the front, stiffness after rest, a leg turned outwards, pain when touched.
Commonly affected: Large, fast-growing breeds.
Forms: Several, for example loose bone fragments or a step between the ulna and radius.

Reading time 4 minutes Joints & bones

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When should you see a vet?

If your dog is lame at the front, a visit to the vet is the most important first step. See your vet promptly if:

your dog doesn’t put any weight on a foreleg at all,
the elbow is swollen or warm,
a young dog keeps going lame at the front.

Elbow dysplasia (ED) is an abnormal development of the elbow joint that is usually hereditary. It mainly shows as lameness in the front legs and often occurs in large, fast-growing breeds. If your dog is lame in front, going to the vet is the most important first step.

What is elbow dysplasia?

The term ED covers several developmental disorders of the elbow. What they all have in common is that the joint surfaces do not fit together precisely. Left untreated, this can lead to osteoarthritis. The most important forms are:

Ununited anconeal process: A bony projection of the ulna does not fuse with the bone.
Fragmented coronoid process: A small piece of bone on the ulna breaks off.
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD): A disorder of cartilage development in which a piece of cartilage can come loose.
Joint incongruity: The ulna and radius are of different lengths, creating a step in the joint.

How do you recognize ED?

lameness in one or both front legs, often worse after rest or heavy exercise
stiffness after getting up
paw turned outward or elbow pointing outward
pain when the elbow is bent or stretched

The first signs often appear during growth, usually between a few months and about one year of age.

How does the vet diagnose ED?

After a thorough lameness examination, X-rays, sometimes also CT or MRI, help determine the form and extent.

How is ED treated?

Depending on the findings, treatment ranges from pain management, physiotherapy and adapted exercise to surgery. The aim is to relieve pain and preserve the function of the joint as well as possible. The vet tailors the approach to your dog.

What you can do in everyday life

Several short walks on soft ground instead of long outings
no jumping off the sofa or out of the car, a ramp is better
non-slip rugs and an orthopedic dog bed
keep an eye on weight after talking to the vet

Frequently asked questions about Elbow dysplasia

When does ED show?

Often during growth, usually between a few months and about one year of age.

How is ED diagnosed?

Through a lameness examination and imaging such as X-rays, CT or MRI.

How is ED treated?

Depending on the findings, this ranges from conservative measures to surgery. Your vet will tailor the approach to your dog.

What helps day to day?

Several short walks on soft ground, no jumping off the sofa, non-slip rugs, ramps and an orthopaedic dog bed. Keep an eye on your dog’s weight after talking to your vet.

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Veterinary expertise at the heart of our team

Dr. med. vet. Sibylle Ott has been part of our team at DOG FIT by PreThis^® from the very beginning. As an experienced vet, she supports our work professionally and contributes her knowledge of dog health. Her experience and her deep understanding of dogs’ needs are an important guide for us. She is a valuable treasure for our team and for the well-being of many dogs.

This content is for information only and does not replace advice from a vet. Our products are complementary feed for dogs. They do not replace a veterinary examination or treatment. If your dog has any health problems, please contact your vet.