17/12/2025
Treating Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs 🐾
Elbow dysplasia can be a frustrating and complex condition to manage. Because there is no cure, the focus is on long-term management to keep your dog comfortable, mobile, and active as they age.
💚 Conservative Management:
Most dogs benefit from a conservative (non-surgical) approach. This usually includes:
• Activity guidance – A physiotherapist can help you understand how much exercise your dog should have and which activities are safest for their joints.
• Strengthening exercises – Targeted exercises help build and maintain the muscles around the elbow, improving support and reducing strain.
• Weight management – Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is essential to reduce joint pressure.
• Lifestyle adjustments – Soft bedding, controlled walks, avoiding repetitive high-impact play, and using ramps when needed.
💚 When Symptoms Persist:
If your dog continues to show ongoing lameness or discomfort, additional treatment may be recommended:
• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication
• Joint supplements or intra-articular injections
• Surgery, if structural changes are severe or conservative care isn’t providing enough relief
💚 The Goal:
With the right management plan, many dogs with elbow dysplasia can lead happy, active lives. Early intervention and guidance from a physiotherapist or veterinary team can make a huge difference.