Elbow Dysplasia(ED)
Also known as: Ellbogengelenksdysplasie · Canine Elbow Dysplasia · Ellbogenarthrose des Hundes · Osteochondrosis dissecans of the elbow · Ellbogen-OCD · …
Overview
What it is
Elbow dysplasia is a developmental disorder of the musculoskeletal system where the three bones forming the elbow joint do not fit together properly. This misalignment causes abnormal friction and wear on the joint cartilage, eventually leading to painful, chronic joint inflammation and arthritis. It is a complex genetic condition influenced by multiple genes.
How it presents
Owners typically notice front-leg limping, stiffness after resting, or a reluctant, shortened stride, with symptoms usually appearing between 4 and 10 months of age. Affected dogs may also turn their paws outward or shift their weight to avoid putting pressure on the painful joint.
Treatment
While the underlying joint damage cannot be cured, the condition is managed through surgeries like arthroscopy, weight control, and lifelong pain management or physical therapy. Treatment is long-term and typically costs between 1,500 and 8,000 EUR depending on the severity and required procedures.
How it's tested
Ellenbogendysplasie-Auswertung (ED-Röntgen) nach IEWG(ED-IEWG)
Primary testRadiographRöntgenaufnahme der Ellenbogen, ausgewertet nach IEWG-Standard (0-3).
Issuing body: FCI
Result scheme: ED-IEWG
Affected breeds
24 of 229 breeds
Airedale TerrierMandatory testMandated by Klub für Terrier e.V.
American BulldogRecommended standard
American BullyMandatory testMandated by American Bully Club Deutschland (im DZR e.V., kein VDH-/FCI-Verein)
American CollieMandatory testMandated by Club für Amerikanische Collies (CfAC) e.V.
American Staffordshire TerrierRecommended standard
AussiedoodleRecommended standard
Australian Cattle DogRecommended standard
Australian KelpieRecommended standard
Australian ShepherdMandatory testMandated by Club für Australian Shepherd Deutschland e.V. (CASD)
BarbetMandatory testMandated by Verein für französische Vorstehhunde – VBBFL e.V.
Belgian LaekenoisMandatory testMandated by Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V.
Belgian MalinoisMandatory testMandated by Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V. (DKBS)
Belgian Shepherd DogMandatory testMandated by Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V.
Belgian TervurenMandatory testMandated by Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V.
Bergamasco Shepherd DogRecommended standard
BernedoodleRecommended standard
Bernese Mountain DogMandatory testMandated by Schweizer Sennenhund-Verein für Deutschland e.V.
Black Russian TerrierRecommended standard
Blue Picardy SpanielMandatory testMandated by Verein für französische Vorstehhunde e.V. (VBBFL)
Bohemian ShepherdRecommended standard
BordoodleRecommended standard
Bouvier des ArdennesRecommended standard
Bouvier des FlandresRecommended standard
Braque d'AuvergneMandatory testMandated by Verein für französische Vorstehhunde – VBBFL e.V.
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Elbow Dysplasia?
Elbow dysplasia is a developmental disorder of the musculoskeletal system where the three bones forming the elbow joint do not fit together properly. This misalignment causes abnormal friction and wear on the joint cartilage, eventually leading to painful, chronic joint inflammation and arthritis. It is a complex genetic condition influenced by multiple genes.
How is Elbow Dysplasia tested?
Tests currently in our database: Ellenbogendysplasie-Auswertung (ED-Röntgen) nach IEWG.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Airedale Terrier, American Bulldog, American Bully, American Collie, American Staffordshire Terrier, Aussiedoodle, Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Kelpie.