DEVELOPMENTAL JOINT DISEASES
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) publishes inherited condition statistics. Berners have a moderate risk of hip dysplasia and a high risk of elbow dysplasia. 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. The table below shows the Bernese Mountain dog data.
Data sourced from Hart and others (2020) - A statistical correlation exists between neutering and joint disease. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia develop between 2 and 8 months of age, so neutering after 8 months can’t affect their development. Neutering can trigger weight gain which can, in turn, increase the risk of ACL injury. To date, no studies have proven a causal relationship between neutering and joint disease. Tap here to learn more about neutering risk.
SPECIFIC CONDITIONS
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Berners have the highest elbow dysplasia risk of all dog breeds. Elbow dysplasia risk is 140x higher than average. Chronic forelimb lameness in puppies warrants veterinary investigation. Elbow dysplasia is the most likely cause and prompt treatment can improve long-term prognosis.
Shoulder OCD risk is 47x higher than average but shoulder OCD is significantly less common than elbow dysplasia.
Panosteitis causes waves of pain and lameness, which can switch between limbs. Possible triggers include consumption of protein-rich, high-calorie commercial puppy food. Breed risk in Berners is 2.8x average.
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Elbow dysplasia is a common cause of chronic forelimb lameness. Elbow arthritis secondary to elbow dysplasia gradually worsens with age. The best treatment depends on age and arthritis severity.
Berners are ranked #8 for malignant bone cancer. Affected dogs have an average age of 7.3y.
Sporting dogs have a higher risk of muscle and ligament injuries. Elbow dysplasia should be ruled-out before making a definitive diagnosis. Diagnosis can be challenging and frequently requires advanced imaging or arthroscopy.
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Panosteitis causes waves of obvious bone pain and lameness which can switch legs. Breed risk is 2.8x higher than average.
OCD causes chronic lameness, pain and swelling of one or both ankle (hock) joints.
Hip dysplasia is common, affecting 16.3% of OFA-registered Berners in 2020. Mild and moderate hip dysplasia rarely trigger insurance claims. Severe hip dysplasia triggers a claim in one-third of insured Berners.
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Cruciate ligament injuries are the commonest cause of chronic hindlimb lameness. Berners were ranked #13 for cruciate ligament surgery (TPLO) in a UK hospital database. Tap here to learn more about how to diagnose and treat ACL injuries.
Berners are ranked #8 for malignant bone cancer. Affected dogs have an average age of 7.3y.
Intermittent severe pain and lameness could be caused by lower back or Achilles problems.
