Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Elbow Dysplasia Surgical Welfare

Elbow dysplasia is a common developmental orthopaedic disease in large breed dogs causing chronic pain and reduced quality of life.

Key Facts

Elbow dysplasia encompasses several developmental conditions affecting the elbow joint
Affected breeds include Labradors, Rottweilers, German Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs
Surgical intervention including UAP removal and TPLO significantly improves outcomes
Pain management before and after surgery is essential to welfare outcomes
Genetic selection using BVA elbow scoring reduces prevalence over generations

Welfare Considerations

Elbow dysplasia causes chronic pain from early adulthood in affected dogs. Breeding from scored, clear parents substantially reduces incidence. Early identification and appropriate management including surgery when indicated significantly improves quality of life.

What You Can Do

Insist on BVA elbow scores when purchasing high-risk breeds
Seek early orthopaedic assessment for young large-breed dogs showing forelimb lameness
Support breed clubs mandating elbow scoring before registration of breeding dogs