Structural problems can afflict our dogs. Hip dysplasia (HD) is a progressive, degenerative disease involving malformation of the hip socket joint. HD ranges from very mild with no apparent effects, to severe requiring surgical correction or euthanasia. Hip dysplasia appears to have both genetic and environmental causes. The term 'hips clear* is often utilized to imply a dog is structurally sound. Hips aren't the only boney structure that can be unsound. Current data suggests that in BMDs, there may be more elbows dysplasia (ED) and OCD of the shoulders than there is HD. Soft tissue injuries to ligaments and muscles can result in lameness as can Panosteitis, a developmental condition that causes pain in long bones during growth. Any persistent lameness requires examination by a veterinarian.

ORTHOPEDIC EVALUATIONS

The oldest organization for evaluating joint status is the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA. Radiographs (X-rays) of a dog's hips or elbows are analyzed by radiologists to determine the presence or absence of orthopedic disease. Hips or elbows deemed free of dysplasia will get a numbered OFA certificate with a rating of Fair, Good, or Excellent. If there is evidence of dysplasia, no number is assigned. An OFA # on a parent does NOT necessarily mean the offspring will have good joints, but breeding from parents not affected by orthopedic disease is important to conscientious breeders. PennHIPalso evaluates hip status. Breeders should provide evidence their dogs have been screened for orthopedic disease.

Articles covering orthopedic conditions are located on the BMDCA website at the following links.

• Osteoarthritis
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Canine Hip Dysplasia
• Osteochondritis Dessicans