Dogs age and get injured, just like humans. Slower moving dogs can be early signs of arthritis in dogs. But dogs that barely move because they are in so much pain are a bigger problem. A visit to the veterinarian is essential to determine if your dog has this skeletal disease. What is elbow dysplasia in dogs? Keep reading to find out.
Good news: you and your dog are not alone with this diagnosis. Unfortunately, elbow dysplasia is one of the most common skeletal diseases in dogs. Here’s what you need to know about elbow dysplasia in dogs.
What is elbow dysplasia in dogs?
Elbow dysplasia is one of the most common skeletal diseases in dogs. When this happens, the patella of the elbow joints show abnormal growth with insufficient coverage, making the joints more fragile. loose and unstable. Long-term joint problems cause scarring around the joints. Bone spurs can develop and the pain associated with them increases over time. Ultimately, this causes arthritis in the elbow joint, which can lead to pain and loss of function and mobility.
Here is an illustration of the area where this disease occurs:
What causes elbow dysplasia?
Unfortunately, some dogs will suffer from Canine Elbow Dysplasia as an inherited skeletal disorder. EElbow dysplasia occurs when the dog’s joints are not well developed. The most important factor is genetics. The elbow joint is surprisingly complicated. It is made up of 3 bones: the radius, the ulna and the humerus. If there is an abnormality in the growth of any of these bones until it fits perfectly, there will be problems. However, rapid weight gain and obesity can aggravate the problem to the point that the joints give way. Elbow dysplasia usually affects both elbows and is rarely found in either elbow.
What are the signs of elbow dysplasia in dogs?
Symptoms of elbow dysplasia vary. What is surprising is that some see obvious signs of elbow dysplasia in their dogs, and others see none. Dogs with obvious problems can develop as young as 5 months old. But for other dogs, it may be around age 4 to 6 when they notice the obvious signs. Here are some obvious signs of the problem:
- Stiffness, especially in the hind legs
- Abnormal movements when walking or running, or gait seems abnormal
- Elbow rotation, more inward than outward
- Slow down when they hadn’t been slow before
- Reluctance to be active, such as climbing stairs or jumping
Is there a way to prevent elbow dysplasia?
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent elbow dysplasia. It is an inherited joint disease that can affect a dog as young as one year old. Larger dogs are the most susceptible due to their size. If a dog already has a skeletal disease, you may not know until he gets older and the symptoms become more prevalent. Weight gain and age can make mobility more painful and become a problem requiring a trip to the vet.
Which dog breeds are more prone to elbow dysplasia?
Every dog is different. However, some breeds are more susceptible to this disease. Elbow dysplasia is more common in large to giant breed dogs. The main breeds that are commonly diagnosed with elbow dysplasia include:
According to Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), they tracked and ranked the dogs most likely to be affected by elbow dysplasia. This group has compiled its list of the most affected dog breeds. The results might surprise you. Although these problems are more common in large breed and giant breed dogs, there are other smaller dogs that could also suffer from them. Here are the 5 best dog breeds for elbow dysplasia:
- Chow chow
- American bully
- Rottweiler
- Bulldog
- Pug
Check full list here. You can also click on your favorite breed and find out what statistical data it has for all entries in the OFA disease database.
How to treat elbow dysplasia in dogs?
Your veterinarian will suggest the elbow dysplasia treatment plan that is best for your dog. Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. In some cases, surgery will be recommended. Here are some treatment options:
- Surgical options include removal of loose cartilage and bone fragments.
- Correct or surgically replace the joint.
Non-surgical treatments include:
- Keep exercising in a limited direction, as it’s very important to keep your dog moving.
- Pain relief with an anti-inflammatory.
- Rest, especially after exercise.
- Add extra joint mobility with glucosamine and chondroitin.
Unfortunately, there is also no way to reverse the effects of elbow dysplasia. A treatment plan is required. Although you may consider taking prescription medications, remember that, as with humans, painkillers may not be a good long-term solution. Consider using all-natural supplements, such as Glyde™ Mobility Chews Hip and Joint Supplement for Dogs.
Can diet or exercise help my dog with elbow dysplasia?
Your veterinarian may recommend that your dog lose weight as a first effort to relieve painful symptoms. This won’t solve the problem, but it may make it easier for your dog to move around. It is always important to feed your dog a healthy diet, especially if it is a large breed dog.
What type of joint supplement would you recommend?
Parnell Living Science is the manufacturer of Glyde™ Mobility Chew, an all-natural joint supplement with strong scientific backing to fight joint pain. The ingredients contain a unique combination of green lipped mussel, glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. Green-lipped mussel (GLM) contains beneficial nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, glycosaminoglycans and antioxidants. Combined with glucosamine and chondroitin, GLM (one of the best sources of omega-3s) can help reduce pain and preserve joint function. Glyde Mobility Chews is the only joint supplement with proven levels of these key ingredients to help maintain youthful mobility throughout your dog’s life.
Of course, there are many other joint supplements on the market. Be sure to know what to look for in a joint supplement.
What else can I do to ease my dog’s pain?
Just think about what might help you if you had joint pain, and the advice is pretty much the same for your dog. Here are some ideas:
- Massage your dog’s joints and muscles
- Add a joint supplement to relieve swelling
- Provide a firm, orthopedic bed for your dog
- Add rugs and/or carpeted areas for your dog to walk on and lie on. This will prevent your dog from slipping on the floor.
While it’s difficult to detect what mobility issues you’re seeing in your dog, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns. Arthritis in dogs is also a joint disease that can start with elbow dysplasia. Find out and take the arthritis quiz by clicking the link below!
Of course, we love our fur babies and only want the best for them. As with anything, if you notice any obvious behavioral changes, call your vet and schedule an appointment.
Sources:
“What is elbow dysplasia in dogs?” by PetPlace.com
“Canine elbow dysplasiaby the American College of Veterinary Science (ACVS)
wikiHow Pets,”Treating Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs»