There are many causes of lameness in puppies and dogs. Most of these are relatively minor and are within the body’s healing capability. However, there are also many developmental problems that if not treated promptly, may result in permanent lameness or arthritis.

To minimize the likelihood of permanent lameness, your vet may recommend x-rays to identify or exclude certain problems and to decide on the best treatment plan. Several x-rays may be necessary in order to build up an accurate picture of the problem. The dog’s normal leg may also be radiographed for comparative purposes.

So what sort of conditions might the vet be looking for?

1. Hip Dysplasia
This is a malformation of the hip joint(s). If this joint is thought of as a ‘ball and socket’ type arrangement, then with hip dysplasia, the joint develops abnormally such that the ‘ball’ part of the leg does not fit properly into the ‘socket’ part of the pelvis. Certain breeds are more prone than others. There are several choices of treatment depending on the severity. Speak to your veterinarian for more information.

2. Ununited Anconeal Process
This is a lack of fusion of bone in part of the elbow joint causing pain and arthritis. Treatment often involves surgery in order to avoid the early onset of arthritic changes within the joint.

3. Fractures
Various fractures that may not be able to be diagnosed simply by observation. The type of fracture will determine the type of treatment required.

4. Panosteitis:
An inflammation on the surface of the long bones.

5. Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD)
A defect in the cartilage within one or more of several joints.

6. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD)
Another type of inflammation of the bones, often associated with other signs of illness.

A specific diagnosis is therefore very important to developing the right treatment plan as all the above diseases have different treatment options and likely outcomes. Make sure any recurring or continuing lameness is checked out by your veterinary surgeon.