Elbow dysplasia is a term used for a group of developmental problems in the elbow joint. The joint is made of three bones: the humerus in the upper arm, and the radius and ulna in the lower arm. When these bones do not fit together as they should, the cartilage wears down and arthritis follows [citation:1].
Is it common in Cotons?
Elbow dysplasia is seen most often in large and giant breeds, such as Labradors and German Shepherds [citation:1][citation:14]. In the Coton de Tulear, it is not a widespread problem, but it does occur. Breeders who test for it usually do so alongside hip testing, as part of a general health screening [citation:7][citation:15].
The form seen in some small breeds is called elbow incongruity, where the joint surfaces do not line up properly [citation:11].
Signs to watch for
Signs can appear in puppies as young as four to six months, or later in life. Common signs include:
- Lameness in one or both front legs, especially after rest or hard play.
- Stiffness when getting up.
- Reluctance to jump or climb stairs.
- Holding the leg out or favouring it.
A stiff puppy is not normal. If you notice any of these signs, a vet visit is the right first step.
How it is graded
The OFA evaluates elbow x-rays and grades abnormal elbows from I to III. A normal elbow is not given a grade. The grades are based on how much bone change is visible along the anconeal process, and on other signs of degenerative joint disease [citation:4]:
- Grade I: minimal bone change, less than 2 mm.
- Grade II: bone proliferation of 2 to 5 mm, with some subchondral bone changes.
- Grade III: well developed degenerative joint disease, with bone proliferation greater than 5 mm.
The OFA will not certify a normal elbow until the dog is two years old. Preliminary x-rays can be taken earlier, but the final evaluation waits until the dog is mature [citation:4].
Treatment
Treatment depends on the grade and on how much the dog is affected. For mild cases, the focus is on managing arthritis: weight control, gentle exercise, and pain relief. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation can help keep the joint working.
For more severe cases, surgery may be an option. Arthroscopy can remove bone fragments and treat damaged cartilage. In some dogs, a procedure to adjust the ulna may improve how the joint fits together [citation:1]. Recovery from surgery is slow and needs strict rest at first [citation:5].
Breeding advice
Elbow dysplasia is inherited, though the pattern is complex and involves more than one gene [citation:7]. The OFA recommends that breeding dogs have their elbows evaluated before a litter is planned. A dog with a poor grade should not be bred.
Because the condition is not common in Cotons, some breeders may not test for it. If you are buying a puppy, it is fair to ask whether the parents were screened, and to see the results if they were.
What the club recommends in 2026
As of 2026, elbow evaluation is part of the health testing the club encourages for breeding Cotons, alongside hips, eyes and the DNA tests. If you have questions about a result, or you are not sure what a grade means, please write to us, call us, or come and visit us at a club event.
Sources: OFA, Langford Vets, North American Coton Association.
