The short version
Bone disorders can be developmental, infectious, nutritional, or due to bone tumors, trauma, or unknown causes.
Developmental Bone Disorders
Developmental bone disorders appear in young animals when the bones do not grow correctly. They may be congenital (present at birth) or occur as the animal grows. Some of the more common causes include hereditary breed characteristics and dietary imbalances.
Angular Limb Deformities
Abnormal development of the bones of the foreleg (the radius and ulna) can occur after injury to growth plates. It may also be hereditary in some breeds (such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Basset Hounds, and Dachshunds). Irregular growth of the 2 bones leads to shortened limbs, bowing of the bones, partial displacement of the elbow joint, and bending or twisting of the carpus (wrist).
Growth plates, dog
This condition results in lameness. Movement of the elbow or carpal joints is painful, and range of motion is reduced. X-rays may reveal the extent of bone deformity.
Treatment is based on correcting the position, shape, and length of the limb, and reestablishing normal joint movement. Surgical procedures include corrective surgery and stabilization with internal or external implants. The outlook for recovery is good as long as the limb deformities are not severe.
Craniomandibular Osteopathy
Craniomandibular osteopathy is a bone disorder of growing dogs that affects the lower jaw (mandible) and the round bones behind the ears (tympanic bullae) of Terrier breeds. Certain portions of the normal bone are resorbed and replaced by immature bone. The cause is unknown, but it is probably genetic.
Signs may vary widely. They include mouth discomfort, weight loss, fever, and painful enlargement of the lower jaw. X-rays are used to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment may involve the prescription of appropriate pain relievers or cortico-steroids to reduce inflammation and discomfort. A soft-food diet is usually recommended. The outlook for recovery is good, because the bone growth stops when the animal matures.
Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy
This disorder affects the areas where growth occurs in the long bones of young, growing dogs, usually of large or giant breeds. The exact cause is unknown.
Signs include pain and swelling in the radius and ulna, fever, loss of appetite, and depression. Affected dogs may be lame and reluctant to move. These signs may come and go. Deformities may develop in severely affected dogs. X-rays can help confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment is aimed at relieving pain; for example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. Supportive fluid care and dietary changes (as recommended by a veterinarian) may also be helpful.
Frequently asked questions
Bone disease dogs?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. Bone disorders can be developmental, infectious, nutritional, or due to bone tumors, trauma, or unknown causes. Developmental bone disorders appear… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
Bone disorders in dogs?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. Bone disorders can be developmental, infectious, nutritional, or due to bone tumors, trauma, or unknown causes. Developmental bone disorders appear… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
Bone marrow disorders dogs?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. Bone disorders can be developmental, infectious, nutritional, or due to bone tumors, trauma, or unknown causes. Developmental bone disorders appear… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.