Chronic forelimb lameness in puppies warrants veterinary investigation. Elbow dysplasia is a common cause, and prompt treatment can improve long-term prognosis.

Incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC) is common in the United Kingdom. It typically causes severe intermittent forelimb lameness in 3-9 month old puppies. The adult form of this condition is called humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF).

In the UK, severe intermittent lameness in spaniels should always be investigated. Untreated IOHC can cause catastrophic humeral fractures. The best diagnostic test is a CT scan.


Springer Spaniel puppies are ranked #5 for panosteitis. It causes waves of pain and lameness, which can switch between limbs. Possible triggers include consumption of protein-rich, high-calorie commercial puppy food.

Elbow arthritis secondary to elbow dysplasia gradually worsens with age. The best treatment depends on age and arthritis severity. Springer Spaniels are ranked #5 for elbow arthritis in a UK database.


Humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF) is common in the United Kingdom. It typically causes severe intermittent forelimb lameness, which improves after prolonged rest. 


In the UK, severe intermittent lameness in spaniels should always be investigated. Intreated HIF can cause catastrophic humeral fractures. The best diagnostic test is a CT scan.


Sporting dogs have a higher risk of muscle and ligament injuries. Diagnosis can be challenging. In the United Kingdom, HIF should be ruled out before making a presumed diagnosis of shoulder lameness.

Springer Spaniel puppies are ranked #5 for panosteitis. It causes waves of pain and lameness, which can switch between limbs. Possible triggers include consumption of protein-rich, high-calorie commercial puppy food.

Hip dysplasia is fairly common in Springer Spaniels. It rarely causes lameness unless it’s severe. Between 2010 and 2020, 42 Springer Spaniel hip replacements were registered in a UK database, ranking them #8. A clinical diagnosis of hip dysplasia in Springer Spaniel puppies requires x-rays to rule out panosteitis, patellar luxation, and ACL injury.

Cruciate ligament problems are the commonest cause of chronic hindlimb lameness. Springer Spaniels are ranked #14 for cruciate ligament injuries and #4 for TPLO surgery. Tap here to learn more about how to diagnose and treat ACL injuries.

Patellar luxation is common. Diagnosis in adult Springer Spaniels triggers a strong suspicion of concurrent cruciate ligament injury.

Hip dysplasia is fairly common in Springer Spaniels. It rarely causes lameness unless it’s severe. Between 2010 and 2020, 42 Springer Spaniel hip replacements were registered in a UK database, ranking them #8. A clinical diagnosis of hip dysplasia requires x-rays showing normal knees and lower back.