Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Elbow dysplasia is a common cause of lameness in the front legs of young dogs, especially among large and giant breeds. This condition develops when multiple abnormalities, called “primary lesions,” occur in the complex elbow joint, which includes three bones and their supporting cartilage. Over time, elbow dysplasia can cause pain, joint swelling, and arthritis, leading to decreased mobility and impacting a dog’s overall quality of life.

Which dogs are prone to elbow dysplasia?

Genetics play a significant role in the likelihood of elbow dysplasia, making responsible breeding a critical factor in prevention. Breeds at greater risk in the United States include Golden Retriever puppies, Labrador Retriever puppies, English Setter puppies, English Springer Spaniel puppies, Rottweiler puppies, German Shepherd puppies, Chow Chow puppies, Bernese Mountain Dog puppies, Newfoundland puppies, and Chinese Shar-Pei puppies. In American veterinary practice, breeders and responsible owners often have their breeding dogs screened for genetic predisposition to this disorder to help reduce its occurrence in future litters.

Recognizing symptoms of elbow dysplasia in dogs

Symptoms typically emerge before a dog reaches two years of age. Lameness affecting one or both front legs is often the earliest sign and can sometimes be mild. You might notice your dog bobbing its head when placing weight on the affected leg, signaling discomfort. When both front limbs are involved, a waddling or paddling gait may develop. In many cases, lameness worsens after exercise rather than during activity, so observe your dog closely following play or walks.

How is elbow dysplasia diagnosed?

If your veterinarian suspects elbow dysplasia, they will physically examine your dog’s legs, assessing pain levels and joint movement while observing their gait. In most cases, x-rays (radiographs) are the primary imaging method used to confirm the diagnosis. Specialized veterinary centers may also employ CT scans or arthroscopy for a detailed examination of the elbow joint.

Options for treating elbow dysplasia in dogs

The treatment approach varies according to the severity of the condition, the dog’s age and overall health, and owner preferences, including financial considerations. Most affected dogs benefit from a combination of therapies designed to relieve pain and maintain joint function.

Non-surgical management

Mild or well-managed elbow dysplasia can often be treated without surgery. Key strategies include maintaining a healthy weight to ease stress on joints, administering prescribed anti-inflammatory and pain medications, and adjusting exercise routines to avoid excessive strain on the elbows while keeping the dog fit. For instance, swimming or low-impact activities can be excellent alternatives favored by many US veterinarians.

Surgical interventions

When conservative treatments do not adequately control symptoms, surgery may be recommended. The surgical technique chosen depends on the specific lesion and the surgeon’s experience.

Arthroscopic fragment removal

This minimally invasive surgery is ideal for extracting small bone fragments that irritate the joint. It can significantly reduce pain and help restore better limb function.

Biceps ulnar release

This procedure involves releasing a portion of the biceps tendon that may be compressing the joint, relieving stress and helping prevent stress fractures.

Sliding humeral osteotomy

For advanced cases, this surgery realigns the bones using plates and screws, redistributing weight bearing and alleviating pain.

Total elbow replacement

In cases of severe joint deterioration, total elbow replacement may be performed. An artificial joint replaces damaged bone, allowing the dog improved mobility. This complex surgery is rare and usually reserved for select cases in referral surgical centers across the US.

Subtotal coronoid osteotomy

This specialized keyhole surgery removes deformed bone caused by stress fractures to improve joint function and reduce pain. It is available only in select American veterinary specialty hospitals.

Emerging and advanced treatments

Ongoing research in veterinary orthopedics and surgical techniques continues to enhance outcomes for dogs with elbow dysplasia. Referral to a veterinary orthopedic specialist may open up additional treatment options specifically tailored to your pet’s condition.

What is the prognosis for dogs with elbow dysplasia?

Outcomes vary widely, depending on the severity and management strategies. Early diagnosis, close monitoring, and an appropriate treatment plan can greatly improve your dog’s long-term function and comfort. Since elbow dysplasia has a hereditary basis, only responsible breeding programs using genetically tested, healthy dogs can help reduce the incidence of this condition in the future.