What is Elbow Dysplasia and how is it caused?
Elbow dysplasia is a condition seen in dogs where the elbow joint does not develop properly. It includes a number of different problems affecting different areas of the elbow joint. This means that the growth of cartilage in the joint is affected and can lead to lameness and arthritis.
It is a disease like hip dysplasia that is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors including the nutrition of the dog, its growth rate, neutering, and exercise.
Is Elbow dysplasia a problem in Bearded Collies?
Fortunately elbow dysplasia is not a serious problem in Bearded Collies and because of this the kennel club does not require breeders to carry out screening. However, we know from Breed Health Surveys that the disease is seen at low levels in the breed and because of this some breeders are starting to test as the test can be done at the same time as scoring for hip dysplasia.
How can Elbow dysplasia be diagnosed?
An assessment scheme is run jointly by the Kennel Club and British Veterinary Association (BVA) is used to diagnose elbow dysplasia. The scheme uses radiographs (X rays) of each of the dog’s elbows taken in two different positions (flexed and extended) with the dog lying on its side. This is usually done under sedation or general anaesthesia to allow the elbow to be positioned accurately without being held, as this is not allowed due to radiation safety regulations. The radiographs must be identified with the dog’s microchip or tattoo number, the registration number and a left/right marker and the date on the label.
What is the Elbow dysplasia scoring scheme?
The elbow radiographs are submitted to the BVA and examined by two veterinary surgeons from a panel of expert scrutineers. Each elbow is graded from 0-3 and the final score given is the highest score for two joints. 0 is a normal joint and 3 is the highest score. Ideally dogs being bred from should have a score of 0 but certainly dogs with a score of 2 or 3 should not be bred from.
What do I need to know if I am buying a puppy?
There is currently no requirement for breeders to elbow score. If scores are available then ideally dogs bred from should not have an elbow score of 2 or 3. The Bearded Collie Club will continue to monitor elbow dysplasia in the breed and liaise with the Kennel Club on breed health and will change recommendations if needed.
Last updated: 09 August 2022