
Osteochondrosis
Osteochondrosis (OC) is a developmental joint disorder in dogs where the cartilage in a growing dog's joints fails to properly develop into bone, leading to abnormal cartilage thickening, cracking, or separation. This condition primarily affects young, large-breed dogs.
Causes?
Osteochondrosis in dogs is caused by factors such as rapid growth in large-breed dogs, genetic predisposition, nutritional imbalances like excessive calcium or overfeeding, and joint stress or trauma during development.
How to feed?
Large and giant breed dogs need to have the current levels of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and energy provided to allow for slow and steady growth. This is especially important during their rapid growth phases from 2-8 months of age.
Clinical signs?
Clinical signs include lameness, limping, swelling, reluctance to move, and pain or stiffness in affected joints.
Related Terms