Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Welfare and Elbow Dysplasia Surgery

Elbow dysplasia causes significant chronic pain in affected dogs. Surgical management of underlying abnormalities improves pain and mobility for many affected individuals.

Key Facts

Elbow dysplasia includes multiple developmental conditions including UAP and OCD
Large breeds including Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Rottweilers are most affected
Surgical management including fragment removal and sliding humeral osteotomy improves outcomes
Post-operative physiotherapy is important for optimal functional recovery
Genetic screening through BVA/KC elbow scheme reduces prevalence when used in breeding

Welfare Considerations

Elbow dysplasia causes chronic, progressive pain. Early surgical intervention prevents arthritic progression and significantly improves long-term welfare outcomes compared to medical management alone.

What You Can Do

Seek early orthopaedic assessment for large breed dogs with elbow pain
Consider referral for surgical assessment rather than long-term medical management
Commit to post-operative physiotherapy for best recovery outcomes
Choose large breed puppies from elbow-tested parents