Relationship between physical signs of elbow dysplasia and radiographic score in growing Rottweilers

OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationship between physical signs of elbow dysplasia and radiographic appearance of the elbow joints in growing dogs. DESIGN: Prospective study. ANIMALS: 55 Rottweiler pups. PROCEDURE: Owners of clinically normal Rottweiler pups were contacted through breed clubs in 3 Australian states and asked to participate in the study. All those offering to participate were included. PROCEDURE: The first physical examination was performed when pups were 3 months old and included a lameness evaluation and palpation of the elbow joints. Physical examinations were repeated when pups were 5, 6, 9, and 12 months old. Radiographs of the elbows were obtained at 6 and 12 months. Relationships among lameness, decreased range of movement, signs of pain, and radiographic data related to elbow dysplasia were examined. RESULTS: Elbow dysplasia caused clinical lameness in only 3 dogs but 57% of dogs developed radiographic signs of elbow dysplasia by 12 months of age. A grade-2 radiographic score at 12 months of age was significantly associated with clinical elbow dysplasia. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Elbow dysplasia has a prevalence of > 50% in certain breed populations. This study supports radiographic screening at 12 months of age, accompanied by physical examination to detect clinical elbow dysplasia.