What are the reasons for problems with the isolated Processus anconaeus (IPA) and the fragmentation of the Processus coronoideus medialis ulnae (FCP)? What should I pay attention to as a puppy owner in order to avoid such damages?

Generally, one has to assume that the genetic make-up of a dog is in most cases decisive for the occurrence of HD and ED. Environmental influences such as deficient alimentation and too much or too little exercise have a certain influence on genetically predispositioned dogs and can increase the degree of the disease. That is true for the different forms of ED as well as for HD. However, especially the influence of the alimentation is often overvalued. Generally, when a young dog shows lameness and the pain can be localized in the elbow, an X-ray of the joints should be done. That often happens at the age of 4 – 7 months. At this time, indications whether there is an ED disease can often be found already and corresponding measures can be taken. Unfortunately, lamenesses at this age are sometimes trivialized as „growing pains“ without any X-ray examination and no further examinations are conducted. Therewith, the chance for the early intervention is not taken advantage of – at the dog’s costs.