Osteochondrosis in Dogs

Category: Bone & Joint
Breeds documented: 2
Published sources: 5

Overview

During growth, cartilage normally matures into bone, but this process can fail in an affected joint. The cartilage becomes abnormally thick and weak, leaving it more likely to crack. Osteochondrosis mainly affects rapidly growing medium and large dogs, commonly in the shoulder, elbow, knee or ankle. If a cartilage flap forms, that stage is called osteochondritis dissecans. Joint inflammation and arthritis can develop as the cartilage becomes damaged.

Signs to watch for

Limping on an affected leg
Swelling around a joint
Stiffness or reduced movement in the joint
Pain when the affected joint moves

This is a growth-related disorder; shoulder signs often appear at 4 to 8 months.

When to get help Arrange a vet visit soon for a limp that persists or keeps returning.

Diagnosis and tests

X-rays help vets identify changes in the bone beneath the joint surface and signs of joint damage. CT scans can reveal defects that are harder to see on ordinary X-rays. A vet may also use arthroscopy, a camera inserted into the joint, to inspect cartilage and plan treatment.

Breeds with documented risk

2 breeds

By breed size

1 Medium
1 Large

Polish Tatra SheepdogLarge · FCI Group 1 (Sheepdogs and Cattledogs)
Swedish Elkhound (jämthund)Medium · FCI Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types)

Inheritance

Not yet known
None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.