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Lilja-Maula LIO, Mäki KH, Aromaa MK, Rajamäki MM. Evaluation of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome breeding test results in Finland from 2017 to 2022. Acta Vet Scand 2024; 66:35. [PMID: 39026339 PMCID: PMC11264736 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-024-00755-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), observed in many flat-faced dog breeds, is one of the most urgent welfare problems in pedigree dogs. Various breeding schemes against BOAS have been implemented in many countries during recent years, but their impact on breed health remains unknown. The BOAS breeding test, used by the Finnish Kennel Club (FKC), includes an exercise component with a recovery assessment, BOAS grading by a veterinarian that evaluates upper respiratory signs before and after exercise, and a nostril stenosis assessment. The aim of our study was to evaluate BOAS breeding test results and estimate the heritability of the BOAS grade using parent-offspring regression from FKC data collected during 2017-2022. RESULTS The majority (80%) of dogs (n = 957) participating in FKC BOAS testing were English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs. In 2022, 89-100% of the litters from these three breeds registered with the FKC had at least one parent tested for BOAS. The proportion of dogs failing the exercise test was highest in English Bulldogs (11%), followed by French Bulldogs (4%) and Pugs (3%). In these three breeds, moderate to severe BOAS signs were reported in 28%, 22% and 30% of dogs, respectively. The proportion of moderate to severe nostril stenosis was highest (71%) in Pugs, followed by French Bulldogs (55%), and English Bulldogs (40%). Estimates of heritability for BOAS grade were separately calculated for these three breeds and for all dogs, and the estimates were moderate to high, ranging from 0.39 to 0.58. CONCLUSIONS The exercise test alone did not sufficiently identify dogs with moderate to severe BOAS signs. To better consider the complex nature of BOAS and breed differences, exercise tolerance, the severity of upper respiratory signs (BOAS grade) and nostril stenosis should all be assessed together in breeding animals. The heritability estimates for veterinary-assessed BOAS grade indicated that BOAS grade could be used in selective breeding to obtain less-affected offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liisa Iiris Onerva Lilja-Maula
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 57, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
- Finnish Kennel Club, Valimotie 17-19, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | - Mimma Kristiina Aromaa
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 57, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Minna Marjaana Rajamäki
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 57, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
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Morel E, Malineau L, Venet C, Gaillard V, Péron F. Prioritization of Appearance over Health and Temperament Is Detrimental to the Welfare of Purebred Dogs and Cats. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1003. [PMID: 38612242 PMCID: PMC11011023 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Fashions in the appearance of purebred dogs and cats are encouraged by celebrity culture, social media, and online impulse buying. The popularity of characteristics perceived as cute, quirky, and anthropomorphic has driven increasingly exaggerated breed features appealing to aesthetics rather than health. 'Hypertypes' of some breeds have emerged that take a breed's distinctive appearance to extremes beyond the intended interpretation of breed standards. This has severe, direct and indirect health and welfare consequences. Extreme conformations are associated with chronic health conditions including brachycephalic obstructive airway disorder, ocular, dental, skin, and musculoskeletal disorders. Puppy and kitten farms and illegal traders that meet the demand for hypertypes are associated with poor husbandry that neglects the physical, behavioral, and mental health of parents and offspring. A multidimensional approach involving collaboration between breeders, geneticists, owners, veterinarians, kennel clubs, cat fanciers' associations, animal charities, the academic and research communities, commercial enterprises, and governments is needed to safeguard breeds and tackle these challenges. There are many ongoing initiatives by national kennel clubs and global partnerships to educate pet owners and support responsible pet ownership and sustainable breeding. The resounding message is that health, temperament, and well-being must be prioritized over appearance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Virginie Gaillard
- Royal Canin, 30470 Aimargues, France; (E.M.); (L.M.); (C.V.); (F.P.)
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Fenet M, Layssol-Lamour C, Pressanti C, Briand A, Desquilbet L, Hahn H. Ultrasonographic findings may be useful for differentiating interdigital abscesses secondary to migrating grass awns and interdigital furunculosis in dogs. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2023; 64:920-929. [PMID: 37438676 DOI: 10.1111/vru.13273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Grass awn migration and furunculosis are common diseases in dogs that can lead to interdigital subcutaneous lesions with a similar clinical presentation, and occasionally similar ultrasonographic images, but different treatments are required. This retrospective, multicentric, analytical study aimed to determine whether epidemiological, clinical, and ultrasonographic features could be used to differentiate interdigital furunculosis and abscesses secondary to migrating grass awns. Fifty-nine dogs that underwent interdigital ultrasonography were included (interdigital furunculosis [IDF], n = 27; interdigital abscess secondary to a migrating grass awn [IAGA], n = 32). Ultrasonographic images were reviewed by two observers blinded to the diagnosis, who graded nine qualitative and four quantitative parameters for each patient. In both groups, pruritus/licking (IDF 74%, IAGA 70%), a discharging interdigital wound (63% for each group), and thoracic limb involvement (IDF 88%, IAGA 75%) were common features. On ultrasound, a subcutaneous multilinear hyperechoic main element was identified in most dogs (IDF 85%, IAGA 100%). The ability to display this element in a single plane (P < 0.01), the absence of additional hyperechoic linear elements in different planes (P < 0.01), and a surrounding hypoechoic halo (P < 0.05) were significantly more common in dogs with interdigital abscesses secondary to migrating grass awns. A cut-off value of 0.83 cm for the length of the main multilinear element provided a sensitivity of 91% and a specificity of 87% in the diagnosis of a migrating grass awn. Findings supported prioritizing a differential diagnosis of interdigital abscesses secondary to grass awns in dogs with these ultrasonographic characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Fenet
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Catherine Layssol-Lamour
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, UMS CREFRE Université de Toulouse, INSERM, UPS, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Charline Pressanti
- Department of Dermatology, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse, ENVT, Toulouse, France
| | - Amaury Briand
- Department of Dermatology, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Loic Desquilbet
- Department of biostatistics and clinical epidemiology, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France
- Univ Paris Est Créteil, INSERM, IMRB, Créteil, France
| | - Harriet Hahn
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France
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Frey R, Varjonen K. A retrospective case series of the postoperative outcome for 30 dogs with inflammatory interdigital nodules, surgically treated with carbon dioxide laser and a nonantimicrobial wound-healing protocol. Vet Dermatol 2023; 34:150-155. [PMID: 36694420 DOI: 10.1111/vde.13146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory interdigital nodules (IIN) affecting the paws of dogs is a multifactorial and painful condition. Surgery using carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) laser has been shown to be helpful in the management. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES To assess a postoperative treatment protocol without use of antibiotics following CO2 laser surgery for IIN treatment. ANIMALS Forty-seven paws, in 30 client-owned dogs, with IINs affecting the interdigital web between the 4th and 5th digits of the forepaws, surgically treated using CO2 laser, were included. MATERIALS AND METHODS Medical records were reviewed for demographic details, medication use and wound healing using a set wound care protocol. Time to resolution of the surgical wounds and the postoperative outcome were assessed. RESULTS The mean healing time was 34 days. Resolution was seen in 42 of 47 paws with complications in five paws (11%), including development of new fistulae or nonhealing granulation tissue. Surgery was repeated in those five cases. Relapse occurred during the follow-up period of five-19 months in six paws (13%). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE This study shows that surgical treatment with CO2 laser for interdigital nodules is successful in most cases. The postoperative outcome using a wound-healing protocol avoiding use of antimicrobials can be used without compromising patient care whilst following antimicrobial stewardship guidelines.
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Paul ES, Coombe E, McGreevy PD, Packer RMA, Neville V. Are Brachycephalic Dogs Really Cute? Evidence from Online Descriptions. ANTHROZOOS 2023; 36:533-553. [PMID: 39015334 PMCID: PMC7616237 DOI: 10.1080/08927936.2023.2176590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Brachycephalic dog breeds have become increasingly popular in recent years, despite showing a high incidence of conformation-related disorders and early mortality. It has been suggested that this popularity might be explained by public perceptions of these short-muzzled dogs as looking particularly infant-like or "cute." Here, the hypothesis that short-muzzled breeds are especially likely to be described as cute was investigated by analyzing the word contents of advertisements for dogs and puppies being sold online. The ages and breeds of dogs being advertised were considered, in addition to whether the text of each advertisement included the word "cute" or two associated words: "adorable" and "sweet." Analyses of the entire sample of advertisements (n = 43,312) indicated that younger dogs were more likely to be advertised as "cute" and "adorable," while older ones were more likely to be advertised as "sweet." Shortmuzzled, brachycephalic breeds (cranio-facial ratio < 0.5) were more likely to be advertised as "cute," with brachycephalic puppies under 6 months of age being particularly likely to be called "cute" and also "adorable." However, breed size had a larger and wider effect on word use in advertisements, with smaller dogs being advertised more frequently using all three words: "cute," "adorable," and "sweet." When data for adult dogs only were considered (n = 11,400), and continuous muzzle shortening and age data were used, a somewhat different and more complex pattern of results were found. Use of the words "cute" and "adorable" were not associated with degree of muzzle shortening among these adult dogs, but "sweet" was used more often in advertisements for longer-muzzled breeds. We conclude that the present dataset provides partial support for the assertion that short-muzzled dogs are described as more "cute" than longer-muzzled ones, but that small size is a better predictor of the use of "cute" and its synonyms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emily Coombe
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, UK
| | - Paul D. McGreevy
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
| | - Rowena M. A. Packer
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Vikki Neville
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, UK
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Lappalainen AK, Pulkkinen HSM, Mölsä S, Junnila J, Hyytiäinen HK, Laitinen-Vapaavuori O. Breed-typical front limb angular deformity is associated with clinical findings in three chondrodysplastic dog breeds. Front Vet Sci 2023; 9:1099903. [PMID: 36733429 PMCID: PMC9887302 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1099903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Angular front limb deformity (ALD) refers to an excessively curved limb conformation, which is seen in some chondrodysplastic dog breeds. Common characteristics of ALD include carpal valgus (VALG), front limb rotation (ROT), elbow incongruity, and lateral radial head subluxation. These may cause lameness and discomfort in affected dogs. The clinical impact and breed-specific characteristics of front limb conformation in chondrodysplastic breeds are unknown. This prospective and cross-sectional study aimed to investigate differences in front limb conformation between three chondrodysplastic breeds. We further evaluate whether front limb conformation is associated with clinical findings and limb function. We propose novel methods to classify findings in the interosseous space and to quantify lateral radial head subluxation. Data from a total of 224 front limbs from 112 dogs of three chondrodysplastic dog breeds (30 Standard Dachshunds, 29 Skye terriers, and 53 Glen of Imaal terriers) were included in the study. Front limb VALG and ROT were measured with a goniometer. From the radiographs, the elbow joint was graded for incongruity (INC), and the humeroradial angle (HRA) was measured to assess lateral radial subluxation. The association of front limb conformation with clinical signs and limb function was investigated using orthopedic examination, goniometric and kinetic measurements, and radiography. The breeds differed significantly in their front limb conformation. The Dachshund had the least ROT and the least radial head subluxation. The Skye terrier had the most VALG, the most radial head subluxation, and the largest prevalence of moderate and severe INC. The Glen of Imaal terrier had the most ROT. In addition, INC, ROT, VALG, and HRA were found to be independent of each other and were associated with several measurable clinical abnormalities and limb function such as pain, lameness, limited range of motion, and elbow joint osteoarthritis. This implies that VALG, ROT, and HRA could be used in addition to INC grading when choosing musculoskeletal characteristics of dogs suitable for breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu K. Lappalainen
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland,*Correspondence: Anu K. Lappalainen ✉
| | - Hanna S. M. Pulkkinen
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sari Mölsä
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Heli K. Hyytiäinen
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Outi Laitinen-Vapaavuori
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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O’NeillI DG, Rowe D, Brodbelt DC, Pegram C, Hendricks A. Ironing out the wrinkles and folds in the epidemiology of skin fold dermatitis in dog breeds in the UK. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10553. [PMID: 35794173 PMCID: PMC9259571 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14483-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractSkin fold dermatitis (intertrigo) is an inflammatory process of closely apposing skin surfaces. Extreme conformations towards folded skin in many dog breeds are linked with higher risk. Using anonymised primary-care veterinary data from the VetCompass Programme, this study aimed to report the frequency, demographic risk factors and clinical management for skin fold dermatitis in the UK. Risk factor analysis used random effects multivariable logistic regression modelling. From a study population of 905,553 dogs, the one-year period prevalence in dogs overall was 0.37% (95% CI 0.35–0.39). Diagnosis was supported by laboratory testing in 4.21% cases. Systemic antibiosis was used in 42.30% cases. Compared with crossbreed dogs, the most highly predisposed breeds were English Bulldog (odds ratio [OR] 49.07, 95% CI 37.79–63.70), French Bulldog (OR 25.92, 95% CI 19.62–34.26,) and Pug (OR 16.27, 95% CI 12.20–21.69). The most protected breeds were Yorkshire Terrier (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.03–0.56), Border Collie (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.11–0.84), Jack Russell Terrier (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.30–0.92) and Labrador Retriever (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.35–0.93). This study adds further evidence to the welfare concerns around high popularity of dog breeds with extreme conformations. The three breeds with by far the highest odds of skin fold dermatitis represent an extreme brachycephalic conformation.
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Töpfer T, Köhler C, Rösch S, Oechtering G. Brachycephaly in French bulldogs and pugs is associated with narrow ear canals. Vet Dermatol 2022; 33:214-e60. [PMID: 35293639 DOI: 10.1111/vde.13067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brachycephalic dog breeds have multiple skull malformations which may lead to anatomical changes in the external auditory canal. It is our frequent observation that in the otoscopic examination of the external ear in these breeds we are unable to visualise the tympanic membrane as a consequence of extreme narrowing of the proximal ear canal. Additionally brachycephalic dogs reportedly are predisposed to otitis externa (OE) and otitis media. OBJECTIVES To characterizse the transition of the cartilaginous ear canal to the bony meatus acusticus externus using computed tomography (CT) and to investigate a possible association with OE in brachycephalic dogs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy-five client-owned dogs [pugs (n = 20), French bulldogs (n = 55)] were included and assessed for OE using an owner questionnaire and otoscopic and cytological examinations. In dorsal plane CT scans, the diameter of the porus acusticus externus was measured using novel methodology. The results were compared with a normocephalic control group without preexisting otological disorders. RESULTS Brachycephalic dogs had a significantly smaller porus acusticus externus diameter (2.6 mm) than normocephalic dogs (5.0 mm). Of the brachycephalic dogs, 32% had OE yet this was not statistically significantly related to the diameter of the porus acusticus externus. Middle ear effusion (44%) and narrowing of the external ear canal (82.6%) were significantly more frequent in brachycephalic dogs. Only five of 150 eardrums could be visualised otoscopically. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Malformation of the porus acusticus externus causes severe stenosis of the proximal ear canal in brachycephalic dogs. A connection between stenosis of the external auditory canal and OE could not be confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Töpfer
- Small Animal Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Claudia Köhler
- Small Animal Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sarah Rösch
- Small Animal Hospital, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gerhard Oechtering
- Small Animal Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Kaimio MLM, Lappalainen AK, Rahmani V, Männikkö S, Laitinen-Vapaavuori OM. Aural CT characteristics of American Cocker Spaniels have features of both mesaticephalic and brachycephalic breeds. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2020; 61:649-658. [PMID: 32808397 DOI: 10.1111/vru.12900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Otitis externa and otitis media are common in American Cocker Spaniels, however breed-specific aural CT descriptions are currently lacking. This prospective and retrospective, observational, analytical study aimed to describe quantitative CT characteristics of the horizontal ear canal and the tympanic bulla in American Cocker Spaniels versus similar-sized mesaticephalic dogs. We prospectively performed clinical examinations and aural CT scanning for 38 American Cocker Spaniels. Computed tomographic transverse area of the osseous horizontal ear canal (TA1), transverse area of the widest air-filled part of the cartilaginous horizontal ear canal (TA2), tympanic bulla volume, and tympanic bulla wall thickness were measured. The TA1 and TA2 measurements were compared with those of 23 retrospectively recruited, similar-sized mesaticephalic dogs that had undergone CT-scanning of the head for non-ear-related reasons. The TA1 and TA2 did not differ for healthy American Cocker Spaniels and mesaticephalic dogs. Severely affected American Cocker Spaniels had significantly smaller TA2 (P < .001). The intraclass correlation coefficient for intraobserver and interobserver repeatability was 0.972 and 0.983 for TA1 and 0.994 and 0.998 for TA2, respectively. Variation between individuals was subjectively noted in healthy and affected American Cocker Spaniels, but mean tympanic bulla volume was slightly smaller in relation to body weight, and the tympanic bulla wall was thicker than in previous reports for mesaticephalic dogs. The tympanic bulla wall appeared thicker rostro-ventrally than caudo-ventrally in 44% of the dogs. Our results imply that a relatively thick tympanic bulla wall may be a normal CT variation and should be interpreted cautiously in this breed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirja L M Kaimio
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anu K Lappalainen
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vahideh Rahmani
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Outi M Laitinen-Vapaavuori
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Eisenschenk M. Phenotypes of Canine Atopic Dermatitis. CURRENT DERMATOLOGY REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s13671-020-00303-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Mölsä SH, Hyytiäinen HK, Morelius KM, Palmu MK, Pesonen TS, Lappalainen AK. Radiographic findings have an association with weight bearing and locomotion in English bulldogs. Acta Vet Scand 2020; 62:19. [PMID: 32398017 PMCID: PMC7218547 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-020-00517-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background English bulldogs are known to be prone to skeletal problems, but knowledge is lacking of the effect of these problems on locomotion and function. This study was undertaken to report the conformational, orthopaedic and radiographic findings in a cohort of English bulldogs in Finland and to evaluate how these findings affect weight bearing and locomotion of the dogs. Twenty-eight English bulldogs were prospectively recruited to this cross-sectional study. An orthopaedic examination, measurements of conformation, static and dynamic weight bearing, and radiographic examinations of elbow, hip, stifle joints and spine were done. Results The English bulldogs carried a mean of 67.3% and 62.1% of their body weight in front limbs while standing and trotting, respectively. Front and hind limb lameness was seen in 20.8% (5/24) and 12.5% (3/24) of dogs, respectively. At orthopaedic examination, abnormal palpation findings (i.e. pain response, crepitation, swelling or subjectively decreased range of motion) were observed in a median of one joint (range 0–5) in each dog. Medial patellar luxation was diagnosed in 33.0% (8/24) of the evaluated dogs. At radiographic examination, elbow dysplasia was diagnosed in 48.2% (27/56) of elbow joints and severe hip dysplasia in 55.4% (31/56) of hip joints. The grade of elbow dysplasia was negatively associated with the ratio of static weight bearing between the front and hind limbs (slope estimate − 1.46, 95% CI − 2.75 to − 0.16, P = 0.03) and in dynamic weight bearing the ratio of total pressure index between the front and hind limbs (slope estimate − 0.088, 95% CI − 0.164 to 0.025, P = 0.03). The severity of hip dysplasia or hip osteoarthritis was not associated with the amount of static or dynamic weight bearing, but all except one dog were diagnosed with Fédération Cynologique Internationale grade C, D or E hips (dysplastic). In the spine, 78.6% (22/28) of the dogs had at least one malformed vertebra. Conclusions Orthopaedic diseases and abnormal radiographic findings were common in the English bulldogs studied. The static weight bearing of the dogs was heavily distributed to the front limbs. With increasing severity of elbow dysplasia, the static and dynamic weight bearing shifted from dysplastic elbows to hind limbs.
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