Causes of Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs A Painful Joint Condition

You’ve probably heard of hip dysplasia, but what about elbow dysplasia in dogs? This painful condition is common in many large breed dogs, and can really affect their quality of life.

Because elbow dysplasia causes swelling and pain in your dog’s elbows, it may result in difficulty walking, exercising, and even standing up. Your dog may not be able to walk or play as much as they would like to, and you may find that they choose to sit or lie down the majority of the time.

But what causes this debilitating condition? Let’s take a look.

Causes of Elbow Dysplasia

The word dysplasia refers to any abnormal development of cells, organs, or tissues. Elbow dysplasia, therefore, is an abnormal development of the elbow.

A dog’s elbow joint is made up of three bones: the humerus, the radius, and the ulna. These bones are supposed to fit together perfectly to form the elbow joint, but in dogs with elbow dysplasia, a developmental problem results in abnormal joint formation.

There are four different types of developmental defects that can appear in a dog’s elbow: 

• Fragmented coronoid process (FCP): A small fragment of the ulna bone has broken off and floats around inside of the elbow joint, causing irritation to the lining of the joint and deterioration to the cartilage of the humerus bone.
• Ununited anconeal process (UAP): A bone outgrowth within the elbow becomes detached and causes irritation and degeneration of the joint.
• Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD): A small piece of joint cartilage becomes loose and detaches from the surface of the joint. This causes irritation and pain.
• Growth rate incongruity: When the radius bone and ulna bone grow at different speeds, it can cause an abnormal curvature of the radius bone. Because the two bones don’t fit together properly, surface cartilage can wear down quickly.

Elbow dysplasia can become more severe if your dog is putting too much stress on the defective joint because they are overweight, or if they are engaging in activities that create a pounding effect on the joint (for example, running on asphalt).

Breeds Likely to Develop Elbow Dysplasia

In general, elbow dysplasia tends to affect large breed dogs. Breeds that are often affected by elbow dysplasia include: Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, Chow Chow, Newfoundland, English Setter, English Springer Spaniel, Rottweiler, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Chinese Shar-Pei.

Most times, puppies begin showing signs of elbow dysplasia between 4 and 10 months of age. Some dogs may not show signs until they reach adulthood and the condition has progressed to degenerative joint disease, also known as osteoarthritis.

While it may be difficult to predict this condition with a mixed breed dog, if you plan to purchase from a breeder, you should ask them to provide documentation that the puppy’s parents have been screened for elbow dysplasia by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).

What to do About Elbow Dysplasia

If your dog is showing symptoms of elbow dysplasia, contact your veterinarian. They will typically diagnosis the problem through a physical examination and X-rays. There are number of treatment options available for dogs suffering from elbow dysplasia, including medications, therapies, supplements, and surgeries. Your veterinarian will recommend the best treatment for your dog.

Symptoms Of Dog Elbow Dysplasia 

Elbow dysplasia is a painful condition caused by abnormal elbow joint development. When the bones in the elbow do not grow together properly to form a normal joint, it can cause uncomfortable wear and tear. This results in pain and inflammation that can affect the way your dog walks and how they behave.

Of course, there are many conditions that can result in a decreased interest in exercise or a change in behavior, so how can you tell if elbow dysplasia is the culprit? Here we will review the telltale signs of this troublesome joint condition.

Signs of Elbow Dysplasia

Because elbow dysplasia causes pain and swelling, the most obvious symptoms will be physical. Your dog’s behavior may also change as they try to avoid activities or circumstances that will make their physical symptoms worse. The severity of the symptoms can vary from dog to dog -- some may experience only occasional pain or limping while others will have agonizing arthritis that affects their every move.

• Limping or Lameness: Since elbow dysplasia makes it painful for your dog to walk, you may see limping or complete lameness in the front legs. If a dog has elbow dysplasia in both legs, they may not limp because both legs hurt equally. If one leg hurts more than the other, however, you will notice them favoring one leg. Many dogs with elbow dysplasia in both legs will change the way they stand or shift their weight to be more comfortable instead of limping. Your dog’s lameness, limping, or shifting may get worse after exercise.
• Abnormal Gait: Many dogs with elbow dysplasia develop an abnormal gait and the feet may appear to paddle, sweep, or rotate outward when they walk. In addition, some dogs will hold the affected elbow away from the body, while others will pull it in tightly.
• Swelling: Elbow dysplasia commonly causes swelling of the elbow joint, and you may be able to see and feel it on your dog. The swelling may be especially apparent after exercise.
• Pain: You may see obvious signs of pain when your dog extends or flexes their elbow. In fact, one of the ways that veterinarians check for elbow dysplasia is by extending your dog’s front legs and seeing how they react.
• Lethargy: The pain caused by elbow dysplasia can tire a dog out. Many dogs affected by this condition will try to avoid exercise and will prefer to spend their time sitting or lying down.

The symptoms of elbow dysplasia usually appear in puppies between the ages of 4 and 10 months. However, some dogs may not show symptoms until they are into adulthood and degenerative joint disease -- or osteoarthritis -- has set it.

If your dog is showing signs of elbow dysplasia, don’t wait -- contact your veterinarian right away. Improper use of the affected joint can make the problem worse, and the sooner you begin treatment for the condition, the better your dog will feel.

How long will my dog live with elbow dysplasia?

Generally, a dog's life expectancy should not be shortened as a result of elbow dysplasia because it does not provide a life-threatening risk. The effects of elbow dysplasia on a dog's quality of life, however, might differ. Reduced exercise tolerance and mobility may result from the condition's pain and discomfort, which could increase related problems like obesity. Consequently, obesity can decrease a dog's lifetime and raise the risk of various health issues. To reduce pain, maintain a healthy weight, and enhance general well-being, elbow dysplasia management must include a combination of appropriate care, exercise, and a balanced diet. Regular veterinary check-ups and early intervention are crucial in recognizing and managing any secondary complications that may arise as a result of the condition. With appropriate care, including pain management, exercise modification, weight control, and other recommended treatments, dogs with elbow dysplasia can lead fulfilling lives with a long and good quality of life.

What are the signs of elbow dysplasia in dogs?

One of the most typical symptoms is lameness or limping, especially after rest or exercise periods. Dogs with elbow dysplasia might have trouble getting up from a lying position and show stiffness in the affected limb. Additionally, they might avoid activities that require them to jump, run, or climb stairs. The gait of their dog may seem strange to owners, with a shorter stride or a bunny-hopping action. The elbow joint in certain dogs may noticeably enlarge or thicken and feel warm to the touch. As the condition progresses, dogs may show signs of chronic pain, which can manifest as behavioral changes like irritability, aggression, or reluctance to be touched or handled. You should note that each dog will display symptoms differently, with some exhibiting milder symptoms or compensating for their discomfort, making diagnosis more difficult. It is critical to seek veterinary care if elbow dysplasia is thought to exist.

How painful is elbow dysplasia in dogs?

Dogs with elbow dysplasia can exhibit signs of pain and lameness in the forelimbs starting as early as four months of age, although some may not show symptoms until much later in life. It is significant to remember that individual dogs' levels of pain might range from low to moderate. Although both elbows are usually affected, the degree of involvement can vary. There may be an asymmetry in the degree of lameness and discomfort, with one elbow displaying more severe signs and abnormalities than the other. However, it is not unusual for there to be a difference in the severity of the ailment between the elbows. The development and progression of elbow dysplasia can be influenced by genetic factors, as well as environmental and lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, and growth rate. 

Is elbow dysplasia in dogs sudden?

Elbow dysplasia in dogs is not typically a sudden condition. It is a developmental orthopedic disease that progresses over time. As the dog grows and matures, the irregularities and deformities in the elbow joint linked to elbow dysplasia progressively develop shape. While some canines may exhibit symptoms as early as four months of age, others might not until much later in life. Individuals can proceed from elbow dysplasia in different ways, with some deteriorating more quickly than others. Factors including heredity, rate of growth, diet, and activity can influence the onset and severity of the illness. Keep in mind that elbow dysplasia symptoms develop gradually rather than abruptly, as do changes in the joint structures that cause them. Periodic veterinary visits, early detection, and appropriate management are a must in addressing elbow dysplasia and minimizing its impact on the dog's well-being. By being proactive in monitoring the dog's joint health and implementing preventive measures, such as controlled exercise and a balanced diet, owners can potentially slow down the progression of the disease and provide a better quality of life for their furry companions.

What are the 4 types of elbow dysplasia in dogs?

Dogs with elbow dysplasia often exhibit at least one of four basic types: elbow incongruity, osteochondritis dissecans, ununited anconeal process, and fragmented medial coronoid process (FCP). In FCP, a bone fragment breaks off inside the joint, whereas in OCD, aberrant cartilage and bone growth take place. UAP describes the improper fusion of the anconeal process, while elbow incongruity describes the misalignment of the joint surfaces. These kinds can happen separately or in combination, resulting in anomalies in the joints, discomfort, and lameness.

How do you prevent elbow dysplasia in dogs?

Preventing elbow dysplasia in dogs requires a multifaceted approach that focuses on genetics, nutrition, exercise, and responsible breeding practices. Firstly, it's important to choose dogs from reputed breeders that focus on health examinations and breed for healthy elbow joints. Breeding dogs must have elbow radiographs taken and receive a dysplasia-free certification from veterinary professionals. Second, it's critical to provide food that is balanced and suitable to encourage the skeletal system's best growth and development. Feeding your dog high-quality, nutritionally balanced food that is tailored to their breed, age, and size will help them stay in good joint health. In order to prevent skeletal deformities, it's vital to avoid quick growth and excessive weight gain. Thirdly, regulated, moderate activity is advised to preserve joint stability and create strong muscles without placing an undue load on growing joints. Avoiding activities that involve high-impact, repetitive motions or jumping on hard surfaces is crucial during a dog's growth phase. Regular veterinary exams and early intervention are also crucial for spotting and treating any signs of elbow dysplasia as soon as they appear. If a condition is identified, possible treatments include pain management, physical therapy, weight control, and, in extreme circumstances, surgical procedures. Finally, supporting appropriate breeding techniques and maintaining the general health and well-being of canine companions depends on educating dog owners and breeders about the hazards and preventative actions related to elbow dysplasia.

Can elbow dysplasia in dogs be caused by injury?

Elbow dysplasia in dogs is primarily considered a developmental condition, and while injuries can exacerbate its symptoms, they are not typically regarded as the primary cause. Elbow dysplasia arises from a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect the proper development of the elbow joint. It is commonly seen in large and giant breeds, and certain breeds are genetically predisposed to the condition. Environmental factors such as rapid growth, excessive weight gain, improper nutrition, and certain types of exercise can contribute to the development and progression of elbow dysplasia. While injuries, such as trauma or repetitive stress, can cause damage to the elbow joint and its structures, they are more likely to worsen existing dysplasia rather than being the sole cause. Traumatic injuries can accelerate the degeneration of the joint, leading to increased pain, inflammation, and functional impairment.

What are the first signs of elbow dysplasia in dogs?

However, some typical early warning signs include limping or lameness, particularly after activity or periods of rest. While the lameness may at first be sporadic, it might eventually grow to become permanent. Dogs that have elbow dysplasia may also exhibit stiffness or apprehension while performing tasks that require the afflicted limb, such as sprinting, jumping, or climbing stairs. Their range of motion in the afflicted elbow joint may be noticeably reduced, and you could also detect some edema, warmth, or soreness there. As the condition progresses, you may notice muscle atrophy or wasting in the affected limb. It is important to note that these signs can overlap with other orthopedic conditions or injuries, so a proper veterinary evaluation is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.

How does a puppy get elbow dysplasia?

Puppies who develop elbow dysplasia typically have a combination of genetic and environmental causes. Genetics is important since some breeds are more predisposed to the illness than others. It is thought that in certain breeds, genetic defects in the growth and development of the elbow joint have a role in the development of dysplasia. Particularly, aberrant wear and tear, instability, and inflammation can result from poor alignment or fit between the humerus, radius, and ulna, the bones that make up the elbow joint. Elbow dysplasia can also develop as a result of environmental influences. Rapid growth, especially during the puppy stage, can put excessive stress on the developing joints and contribute to abnormalities. Factors such as excessive weight gain, improper nutrition, and inappropriate exercise can further exacerbate the condition. Puppies that experience repetitive impact or trauma to their elbow joint may also be at a higher risk of developing dysplasia.

Is it OK to walk a dog with elbow dysplasia?

It can be useful to walk a dog with elbow dysplasia, but it's crucial to proceed carefully and take the condition of the particular dog into consideration. For dogs with elbow dysplasia, moderate and regulated exercise is often advised as it preserves muscular strength, joint mobility, and overall fitness. Avoiding activities that impose too much stress or impact on the injured elbow joint is vital. Long walks or intense physical activities like running or jumping should be avoided as they can exacerbate the discomfort and potentially worsen the condition. Instead, shorter, low-impact walks on even surfaces can be more suitable. It is essential to monitor the dog's behavior during and after walks for any signs of discomfort, lameness, or fatigue. If the dog shows increased pain or lameness, it may be necessary to adjust the duration or intensity of the walks.

More on Dog Joint Health

5 Ways to Prevent Joint Problems in Your Dog
Joint Health Products for Dogs with Arthritis
A Joint Health Exercise Routine for Dogs

This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.