🔍 What Is OCD in Dogs?

Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) is a developmental orthopedic disease where a flap of cartilage forms—and sometimes detaches—inside a joint. This causes inflammation, pain, and lameness in young, growing dogs. OCD primarily affects large breeds between 4–9 months of age and is most commonly found in the shoulder but may also impact the elbow, knee, or ankle.

When cartilage detaches, it may float freely in the joint, causing mechanical irritation, inflammation, and eventually joint damage if not addressed.

🐕 Common Breeds Affected

• Great Danes
• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Golden Retrievers
• German Shepherds
• Newfoundlands (suspected hereditary risk)

🧬 Males are affected more than females, and genetic predisposition plays a significant role.

⚠️ Causes of OCD

While the exact cause remains unclear, several factors may contribute:

• 🧬 Genetics (hereditary in certain breeds)
• 🍽️ Imbalanced diet—excess calcium or vitamin D during growth
• 🦴 Rapid growth promoted by overfeeding
• 🩹 Trauma or injury to joints
• 🩸 Reduced blood supply to growing cartilage
• ⚖️ Hormonal influences during development

To reduce risk, avoid supplementing large-breed puppies with calcium or growth boosters.

📉 Signs of OCD in Dogs

• 🚶 Stiffness after rising or exercise
• 🐾 Limping or favoring a leg
• 😖 Crying out if the joint is pressed or manipulated
• 🔥 Warm, swollen joints in some cases
• 🌀 Lameness may be intermittent or constant

Symptoms may mimic other developmental disorders like elbow dysplasia or growth plate issues, so veterinary diagnosis is essential.

🧪 Diagnosis of OCD

Veterinary diagnostics include:

• Orthopedic exam – to evaluate gait, range of motion, and pain response
• Radiographs (X-rays) – may show lesions, though sedation is often needed
• CT scan – offers 3D visualization of bone changes
• Arthroscopy – a minimally invasive scope placed in the joint for direct visualization

📸 Arthroscopy is often used for both diagnosis and treatment in the same procedure.

💊 Treatment Options

🧘 Conservative Management

Recommended only for dogs under 6 months old with mild signs and no radiographic lesions:

• 🛏️ Exercise restriction
• 💊 Pain medications
• 🍽️ Nutritional support (avoid overfeeding or supplementation)
• 🧘 Formal rehabilitation therapy

🩺 Surgical Treatment

Required in most dogs >6 months or with moderate to severe lesions:

• 🩹 Removal of cartilage flap
• 🧬 Debriding damaged bone to stimulate fibrocartilage formation
• 🔩 Placement of artificial plugs for larger lesions (in some cases)

Arthroscopic surgery is preferred for its minimal invasiveness, rapid recovery, and precision.

🗓️ Post-Surgical Recovery Plan

Total recovery takes 8–12 weeks:

• Week 1–2: Strict rest, short leash walks only
• Week 2–4: Start home exercise and structured leash walks
• Week 4+: Guided rehab, strengthening exercises, progressive mobility

Physical therapy, passive range-of-motion exercises, and hydrotherapy may be recommended.

📈 Prognosis

• ✅ Shoulder OCD – Excellent prognosis with early surgery
• ⚠️ Other joints (elbow, knee, ankle) – More guarded prognosis due to increased arthritis risk

Maintaining a healthy weight and preventing excess joint stress is critical for long-term outcomes.

💡 Preventive Tips

• 🍽️ Feed large-breed puppies a balanced, growth-formulated diet
• ⛔ Avoid calcium and vitamin D supplementation
• 🎾 Limit excessive high-impact activity during growth phases
• 🔍 Monitor for early signs of stiffness or limping
• 🐾 Choose breeders who screen for orthopedic conditions

📊 Quick OCD Reference Table

🔧 Ask A Vet Can Help

Worried about joint pain in your growing pup? Use the Ask A Vet app to consult with experts, share videos of your dog’s gait, and plan diagnostics or rehab. 🐕🩺 Don’t wait—early detection and treatment improve outcomes!

🐾 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

OCD can sound scary, but it’s treatable—especially with early intervention. Watch for signs of stiffness in young dogs, avoid overfeeding, and speak to your vet at the first sign of trouble. A strong recovery is within reach with the right plan. 💪🐶