Orthopaedic Conditions
Orthopaedic conditions affect the bones, joints, growth plates and overall musculoskeletal health of the Cane Corso. As a large, powerful and rapidly growing breed, the Cane Corso can be predisposed to a range of developmental and inherited orthopaedic disorders that may impact mobility, comfort and long-term quality of life.
Many orthopaedic conditions develop during growth, while others may not become apparent until adulthood. Responsible breeding, appropriate nutrition, controlled exercise during development and health screening programmes all play an important role in reducing the incidence and impact of these conditions.
The ICCGB strongly encourages health testing, responsible breeding practices and early veterinary assessment whenever mobility concerns arise.
Hip
Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is one of the most significant orthopaedic conditions affecting large and giant breed dogs. The condition occurs when the hip joint develops abnormally, resulting in instability, abnormal wear and, over time, osteoarthritis.
Clinical signs may include stiffness, reluctance to exercise, difficulty rising, bunny-hopping gait, reduced performance and discomfort following activity. Severity can vary considerably between individuals.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) Hip Dysplasia Scheme provides an objective assessment of hip conformation and remains one of the most valuable tools available to breeders. Health testing and careful selection of breeding stock play a vital role in reducing the risk of Hip Dysplasia within the breed.
Elbow
Dysplasia
Elbow Dysplasia refers to a group of developmental abnormalities affecting the elbow joint. These abnormalities can lead to joint incongruity, inflammation, lameness and early-onset arthritis.
Affected dogs may show forelimb lameness, stiffness after rest, reduced willingness to exercise or intermittent mobility issues that worsen over time.
The BVA Elbow Dysplasia Scheme assists breeders in identifying affected dogs and making informed breeding decisions. Screening remains an important component of orthopaedic health management within the Cane Corso.
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)
Osteochondritis Dissecans is a developmental joint disorder that occurs when cartilage fails to mature normally during growth. This can result in areas of abnormal cartilage separating from the underlying bone, leading to pain, inflammation and reduced joint function.
OCD most commonly affects the shoulder but may also occur in the elbow, stifle or hock joints.
Clinical signs often develop in young, rapidly growing dogs and may include persistent lameness, stiffness and exercise intolerance. Early diagnosis can significantly improve long-term outcomes.
Panosteitis
Panosteitis, often referred to as "growing pains", is a developmental condition commonly seen in rapidly growing large breed dogs. The condition causes inflammation within the long bones and may result in shifting leg lameness that appears to move between limbs.
Affected dogs are often between five and eighteen months of age and may experience periods of discomfort followed by apparent recovery.
Although the condition is generally self-limiting and resolves with maturity, veterinary assessment is recommended to exclude other causes of lameness and ensure appropriate management.
Wobbler Syndrome
Wobbler Syndrome otherwise known as Cervical Spondylomyelopathy refers to a group of conditions affecting the cervical vertebrae and spinal cord within the neck. Compression of the spinal cord can result in neurological deficits and altered movement.
Affected dogs may display an unsteady gait, weakness, dragging of the toes, neck pain, difficulty rising, or an abnormal stance. In severe cases, mobility may become significantly impaired.
Diagnosis often requires advanced imaging such as MRI or CT scans. Treatment options vary depending on severity and may include medical management, physiotherapy or surgical intervention.
Angular Limb Deformities
Angular Limb Deformities occur when one or more growth plates close prematurely or develop abnormally, causing the limb to grow unevenly. This can result in visible bowing, twisting or misalignment of the limb.
Severity varies considerably and may range from mild cosmetic changes to significant mobility impairment and joint dysfunction.
Early diagnosis is particularly important in growing dogs, as some cases may benefit from surgical intervention before skeletal maturity is reached.
Maintaining good orthopaedic health requires a combination of responsible breeding, appropriate nutrition, controlled growth and regular veterinary care. While not all orthopaedic conditions can be prevented, health screening programmes, informed breeding decisions and early intervention can play a significant role in improving mobility, comfort and long-term quality of life for the Cane Corso. By working together, breeders, owners and veterinary professionals can help protect the structural soundness and welfare of future generations.