Question 1

What is elbow dysplasia in dogs?

Accepted Answer

Elbow dysplasia (ED) is a collective term for several developmental abnormalities of the elbow joint in dogs, primarily affecting large and giant breeds. The three main components are fragmented medial coronoid process (FCP), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the medial humeral condyle, and ununited anconeal process (UAP). These conditions result from abnormal growth and development of the elbow joint, leading to incongruity between the three bones that form the joint (humerus, radius, and ulna). The condition is heritable and typically manifests between 4-10 months of age.

Question 2

How is elbow dysplasia scored and graded?

Accepted Answer

The International Elbow Working Group (IEWG) uses a 0-3 grading scale: Grade 0 (normal), Grade 1 (mild dysplasia with minimal osteophyte formation less than 2mm), Grade 2 (moderate dysplasia with osteophytes 2-5mm), and Grade 3 (severe dysplasia with osteophytes over 5mm or a primary lesion such as FCP or UAP). The OFA uses similar categories labeled Normal, Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III. The BVA/KC scheme in the UK scores each elbow from 0-3, with the total score for both elbows ranging from 0-6. Ideally, breeding dogs should have scores of 0 in all systems.

Question 3

Which dog breeds are most affected by elbow dysplasia?

Accepted Answer

Breeds with the highest prevalence of elbow dysplasia include Bernese Mountain Dogs (approximately 25-30% affected), Rottweilers (20-25%), German Shepherds (15-20%), Labrador Retrievers (12-18%), Golden Retrievers (10-15%), and Newfoundlands (15-20%). Among shepherd breeds specifically, German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and Australian Shepherds show significant prevalence. The condition is relatively uncommon in small and toy breeds. Prevalence data varies between registries and countries due to differences in screening protocols and reporting requirements.

Question 4

At what age should dogs be screened for elbow dysplasia?

Accepted Answer

Most registries recommend initial elbow screening radiographs at 12-24 months of age, when the growth plates have closed and the joint has reached skeletal maturity. The OFA requires a minimum age of 24 months for final certification. The BVA/KC scheme accepts submissions from 12 months. Early screening at 5-6 months may identify severe cases requiring surgical intervention, but is not suitable for certification purposes. For breeding programs, a minimum age of 18-24 months is recommended to ensure reliable assessment.

Question 5

How should breeders use elbow scores in breeding decisions?

Accepted Answer

Breeders should ideally only breed dogs with Grade 0 (normal) elbow scores to reduce ED prevalence in future generations. When breed-specific considerations require using dogs with Grade 1, they should only be mated to Grade 0 partners. Estimated breeding values (EBVs) that incorporate elbow data from relatives provide more accurate selection tools than individual scores alone. Responsible breeders such as Amandine Aubert's Bloodreina in France publish official elbow scores for all breeding dogs alongside hip scores, enabling full transparency in orthopedic health data. Progressive breed clubs track population-level trends to measure improvement over generations.

Question 6

What are the treatment options for elbow dysplasia?

Accepted Answer

Treatment depends on the specific lesion and severity. Surgical options include arthroscopic removal of fragmented coronoid process fragments, removal or reattachment of ununited anconeal process, and debridement of OCD lesions. Proximal ulnar osteotomy may be performed to address joint incongruity. For advanced cases with secondary osteoarthritis, total elbow replacement is available at specialized centers. Conservative management includes weight management, controlled exercise modification, anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), physical rehabilitation, and joint supplements. Early surgical intervention generally produces better outcomes than delayed treatment.

Elbow Score Database

Standardizing Elbow Dysplasia Data

Research Database

Understanding ED Components

Grading System Comparison

Breed Prevalence Data

Screening Protocol

Breeding Decisions

Database Methodology