Canine Elbow  Dysplasia

By: Brigitte Rhinehart



Manifested as: OCD, FCP(fragmented coronoid  process), UAP (ununited anconeal
process), DJD (degenerative joint disease, note  that DJD may also occur in the cartilage
of other joints). The form most often  diagnosed in Swissys appears to be DJD, a
slowly progressive form of cartilage  degeneration usually caused by trauma or
abnormal wear on the joint. DJD is  classified as primary (idiopathic or no
known cause) or secondary (a known  predisposing cause or injury exists).
Anecdotal evidence suggests that most  Swissys diagnosed with DJD during
radiographs of the elbows for OFA  certification fall into the mildest form
grade I. They have never displayed any  clinical signs such as pain, stiffness,
decreased range of motion or lameness.  With DJD, genetic predisposition cannot
be established as definitely as with  other orthopedic conditions. Hence, there
is a wide range of opinions among  Swissy breeders with regard to breeding a dog
affected with DJD grade I. There  is, however, general consensus among breeders
not to use Swissys with DJD beyond  grade I as well as with any of the other
forms of ED.