Dysplasia means something has grown wrong or developed incorrectly--an abnormal development of an organ or part of the body. The most common types of dysplasia in the Rottweiler are canine hip dysplasia (CHD) and elbow dysplasia (ED).
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Cause
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ED and CHD are genetic, although environmental issues, such as obesity, can increase the damage. Rottweilers from a sire and dam that are clear of both diseases are less likely to have either disorder.
Percent
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According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), 20.3 percent of tested Rottweilers have CHD, ranked 30th out of 157 breeds. Rottweilers are the second highest for ED with 40.4 percent affected, according to OFA. However, 30.4 percent are Grade 1, which is mild.
Hips
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CHD is the improper forming of the ball of the leg and the hip socket. It can be mild or cause serious pain and lameness. There may be no symptoms at all or symptoms such as limping, shifting weight to the front legs, problems getting up or a bunny-hop gait.
Elbows
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Elbow dysplasia is a malformation of the elbow and may include symptoms such as limping, not using the affected leg or problems walking and standing.
Testing
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Test your dog as early as six months of age if there are symptoms and at 2 years of age if no symptoms. Your veterinarian can perform X-rays or you can go to an orthopedic specialist.
Treatment
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Weight control, supplements and medications may help control the severity of dysplasia. If your dog is still in pain, various surgeries are available.
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