DEVELOPMENTAL JOINT DISEASES
Bulldogs are bred to have an unnatural morphology. As such, a high rate of joint dysplasias is expected. The main challenge for carers of lame Bulldogs is knowing which of their abnormalities is responsible.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) publishes inherited condition statistics. Bulldogs have a very high risk of hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Note: Data from breeding stock probably underestimates true incidence in the general population.
NEUTERING AND JOINT DISEASE
A 2020 study proposed a link between neutering and joint disease in some breeds. Neutering was not associated with increased risk in Bulldogs. To date, no studies have shown a causal relationship between neutering and joint disease.
Data sourced from Hart and others (2020). Note: This table reveals a critical limitation of observational studies. We’re given a false impression that <1% of Bulldogs have hip dysplasia. The truth is that <1% had a diagnosis of hip dysplasia. Dogs who didn’t have hip x-rays were classified as unaffected. Tap here to learn more about neutering risk.
SPECIFIC CONDITIONS
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Chronic forelimb lameness in Bulldog puppies warrants veterinary investigation. Elbow dysplasia is the most likely cause and prompt treatment can improve long-term prognosis.
Panosteitis risk is 1.9x higher than average. It usually causes cycles of short-term lameness which can switch between limbs. It has several possible causes including consumption of protein-rich, high-calorie commercial puppy food.
Bulldog puppies have a relatively low risk for shoulder OCD.
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Elbow arthritis secondary to elbow dysplasia gradually worsens with age. The best treatment depends on age and arthritis severity.
Interdigital cysts are a common cause of chronic pain and lameness in Bulldogs. There are medical and surgical treatment options.
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Panosteitis is a common cause of hindlimb lameness in puppies.
Bulldog puppies are ranked #6 for knee (stifle) OCD.
Most Bulldogs have hip dysplasia but an x-ray diagnosis is only relevant if other joint disorders have been ruled out.
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Knee problems are the commonest cause of chronic hindlimb lameness in adults. Bulldogs are ranked #13 for cruciate ligament injuries and #16 for cruciate ligament surgery. Tap here to learn more about how to diagnose and treat ACL injuries.
Patellar luxation is common but diagnosis in adult Bulldogs should trigger a strong suspicion of concurrent ACL degeneration.
