Radius Curvus Syndrome in Dogs

When the ulna and radius in the foreleg grow unevenly.

At a glance

What is it?: A growth disorder in the foreleg: the ulna and radius grow unevenly and the leg bends.
Typical signs: Visibly bowed forelegs, limping, standing unevenly, a shortened leg.
Commonly affected: Puppies and young dogs that are still growing.
Causes: A disturbance of the growth plates, for example due to predisposition or an injury.

Reading time 3 minutes Joints & bones

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When should you see a vet?

The sooner an abnormal foreleg is looked at, the better. See your vet if:

one of your puppy’s forelegs is visibly bending or looks shorter,
they limp on a foreleg after a fall or knock,
they show pain when walking or stop putting weight on a leg.

In radius curvus syndrome, the ulna and radius in the front leg grow unevenly and the leg bends. The condition develops during growth, so a front leg that looks unusual in a puppy or young dog should be checked by a vet early.

What is radius curvus syndrome?

The forearm has two bones lying side by side, the ulna and the radius. Normally both grow evenly. In radius curvus syndrome, the growth plate of the ulna stops growing too early while the radius keeps growing. Because the ulna holds the radius in place, the radius bends. This is why it is also called “short ulna”.

How do you recognize it?

front leg that is visibly bent or looks shortened
paw turned outward
uneven standing and weight-bearing
limping, in severe cases pain

What are the causes?

Injury to the growth plate: A fall or knock can damage the sensitive growth plate.
Genetics: In some breeds, growth disorders of the front leg are more common.

How does the vet diagnose the syndrome?

Through a clinical examination and X-rays of both front legs. These show how severe the malalignment is and how much growth is still to be expected.

How is it treated?

That depends on age and severity. In young dogs, early intervention can guide further growth. If the malalignment is pronounced, corrective surgery is possible; in mild cases it is often not needed. The vet decides, often together with a practice specializing in orthopedics.

What you can do in everyday life

Don’t overtax your young dog and avoid lots of jumping.
Make sure floors are non-slip.
Have the leg checked whenever it changes, as long as your dog is still growing.

Frequently asked questions about Radius-Curvus

Why is early detection so important?

The condition develops during growth, so an abnormal leg should be examined early. The options available depend on age and severity.

How is the syndrome diagnosed?

Through a clinical examination and X-rays, which are used to determine the degree of misalignment.

Does my dog need surgery?

With marked misalignment, an operation may be necessary; in mild cases often not. Your vet will decide.

What should I bear in mind day to day?

Don’t overtax your young dog, and avoid lots of jumping and heavy strain on the forelegs.

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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.