Elbow dysplasia in Shelties

[Caro]

In the last couple of years I have been coming across more and more Shelties with elbow dysplasia (as in abnormal growth of the elbow). The specialist also mentioned she was seeing more Shelties with elbow dysplasia.

Now I don't know if I notice it more because Deska has it, but it does seem to me a lot of younger shelties I come across have elbow problems. On SF it isn't something that comes up much - unless its a member from Australia. So I am wondering if you are seeing this in other countries? Could there be something happening with the gene pool here? Should I do anything about it?

 

[dmeyer123]

It's a big concern of mine. Lexi had to have elbow surgery at 18 months for displacia. $4000. and the likelihood of future problems. Sheltie breeders need to be aware. So far Lexi's surgery was a big sucess, but she's only 4 1/2 years old. She loves agility and I hate to think I may have to keep her from it in the future.....

 

[Michele Parker]

It seems most Sheltie breeders don't have elbow OFA's done. I think that's just as important as hip OFA's. I too am hearing of more & more elbow problems in Shelties. I wish all Sheltie breeders checked elbows on their breeding stock.