Elbow dysplasia encompasses several developmental conditions of the elbow joint causing chronic lameness and pain in large breeds, with welfare implications from both the disease and its management.
Dogs with elbow dysplasia experience chronic pain from joint inflammation and cartilage damage that begins in puppyhood and progresses throughout life. The early onset means that affected dogs experience pain during their most active developmental period, limiting normal play and socialization activities. Progressive arthritis despite treatment means that dogs endure long-term pain management requirements. Surgical outcomes are variable, and many dogs develop significant osteoarthritis despite intervention. The strong hereditary basis means that affected dogs have a preventable condition, placing ethical responsibility on breeders to reduce disease prevalence through health screening.