Elbow dysplasia is one of the most common causes of forelimb lameness in dogs, causing chronic pain that significantly impacts quality of life.
Elbow dysplasia causes profound welfare consequences for affected dogs. The condition produces chronic, often severe pain that limits mobility, play, and normal dog behaviors. Dogs may become reluctant to exercise, struggle to rise from rest, and show behavioral changes reflecting ongoing discomfort. The progressive arthritic changes mean that even surgically treated dogs typically develop increasing pain with age. Managing this condition requires lifetime commitment to pain management, weight control, and modified exercise. Breeding programs that screen for elbow dysplasia before breeding can significantly reduce the prevalence of this painful condition.