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Summary: Canine hip dysplasia is characterized by poor hip joint conformation and laxity. The disease is a complex trait influenced by both genetics and environment. Diagnosis and quantification of hip dysplasia are performed by radiographic examination of the hip joint and the diagnosis is used for making breeding decisions in many breeds. A prognostic genetic test (the Dysgen test) based on seven associated SNPs has been developed in a study based on Spanish Labrador Retrievers. In our study this test has been evaluated in 39 Danish Labrador Retrievers with known radiographic hip score: 14 with hip dysplasia (grade D or E) and 25 without hip dysplasia (grade A or B). There was no significant correlation between the Dysgen test results and the radiographic hip status (P = 0.3203) in these dogs, indicating that Dysgen test results obtained for Danish Labrador Retrievers have no prognostic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in humans is a common condition that is associated with hip pain, functional limitations, and secondary osteoarthritis (OA). Surgical treatment of DDH has improved in the last decade, allowing excellent outcomes at short‐ and mid‐term follow‐up. Still, the etiology, mechanobiology, and pathology underlying this disease are not well understood. A pre‐clinical animal model of DDH could help advance the field with a deeper understanding of specific pathways that initiate hip joint degeneration secondary to abnormal biomechanics. An animal model would also facilitate different interventional treatments that could be tested in a rigorous and controlled environment. The dog model exhibits several important characteristics that make it valuable as a pre‐clinical animal model for human DDH. Dogs are naturally prone to develop canine hip dysplasia (CHD), which is treated in a similar manner as in humans. Comparable to human DDH, CHD is considered a pre‐OA disease; if left untreated it will progress to OA. However, progression to OA is significantly faster in dogs than humans, with progression to OA within 1–2 years of age, associated with their shorter life span compared to humans. Animal studies could potentially reveal the underlying biochemical pathway(s), which can inform refined treatment modalities and provide opportunities for new treatment and prevention targets. Herein, we review the similarities and differences between the two species and outline the argument supporting CHD as an appropriate pre‐clinical model of human DDH. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1807–1817, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issue's contents is presented with topics including canine hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and and synovial fluid as well as provides information regarding copyright and subscriptions.

Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is a common problem in veterinary medicine. We report the demographics of CHD using the entire hip dysplasia registry from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, analyzing differences by breed, sex, laterality, seasonal variation in birth, and latitude. There were 921,046 unique records. Each dog was classified using the American Kennel Club (AKC) and F'ed'eration Cynologique Internationale (FCI) systems. Statistical analysis was performed with bivariate and logistic regression procedures. The overall CHD prevalence was 15.56%. The OR for CHD was higher in females (1.05), those born in spring (1.14) and winter (1.13), and those in more southern latitudes (OR 2.12). Within AKC groups, working dogs had the highest risk of CHD (OR 1.882) with hounds being the reference group. Within FCI groups, the pinscher/molossoid group had the highest risk of CHD (OR 4.168)with sighthounds being the reference group. The similarities betweenCHD and DDH are striking. Within DDH there are two different types, the typical infantile DDHand the late onset adolescent/adult acetabular dysplasia, with different demographics; the demographics of CHD are more similar to the later onset DDH group. Comparative studies of both disorders should lead to a better understanding of both CHD and DDH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many purebred dogs exhibit a higher prevalence of inherited diseases compared with non-purebred dogs. One of the most popular breeds in the UK is the Labrador Retriever, which has a high prevalence of hip dysplasia resulting in high costs for surgical operations and impaired animal welfare. Considering the many complications of highly managed populations, mainly due to breeder's conventions and the resulting population structure, is of great importance for the proper development of a strategy against the disease. In this study, we have compared the utilities and performances of both genomic and phenotypic selection against hip dysplasia in a simulated population with the characteristics of the British Veterinary Association and Kennel Club ( BVA/ KC) hip dysplasia scheme. The results confirm the potential benefits of genomic selection by showing a moderate increase of 1.15-fold (assuming a realistic accuracy of r2 = 0.5) in response to selection due to the higher accuracy (between 0.96- and 1.32-fold, considering 0.35 ≤ r2 ≤ 0.7) and more than a threefold increase when all the offspring in each litter are tested (between 3.25- and 4.55-fold, again considering 0.35 ≤ r2 ≤ 0.7). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfect hip joints are rarely found in the dog population as some degree of canine hip dysplasia is present in most dogs. In this article, the theory and methodology of the PennHIP technique is described and compared with the British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club Hip Dysplasia Scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem cells isolated from adipose tissue show great therapeutic potential in veterinary medicine, but some points such as the use of fresh or cultured cells and route of administration need better knowledge. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of autologous stromal vascular fraction (SVF, n = 4) or allogeneic cultured adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs, n = 5) injected into acupuncture points in dogs with hip dysplasia and weak response to drug therapy. Canine ASCs have proliferation and differentiation potential similar to ASCs from other species. After the first week of treatment, clinical evaluation showed marked improvement compared with baseline results in all patients treated with autologous SVF and three of the dogs treated with allogeneic ASCs. On days 15 and 30, all dogs showed improvement in range of motion, lameness at trot, and pain on manipulation of the joints, except for one ASC-treated patient. Positive results were more clearly seen in the SVF-treated group.These results show that autologous SVF or allogeneic ASCs can be safely used in acupoint injection for treating hip dysplasia in dogs and represent an important therapeutic alternative for this type of pathology. Further studies are necessary to assess a possible advantage of SVF cells in treating joint diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breeding to reduce the prevalence of categorically scored hip dysplasia ( HD), based on phenotypic assessment of radiographic hip status, has had limited success. The aim of this study was to evaluate two selection strategies for improved hip status: truncation selection based on phenotypic record versus best linear unbiased prediction ( BLUP), using stochastic simulation and selection scenarios resembling those in real dog populations. In addition, optimum contribution selection ( OCS) was evaluated. Two traits were considered: HD (as a categorical trait with five classes and a heritability of 0.45 on the liability scale) and a continuous trait (with a heritability of 0.25) intended to represent other characteristics in the breeding goal. A population structure mimicking that in real dog populations was modelled. The categorical nature of HD caused a considerably lower genetic gain compared to simulating HD as a continuous trait. Genetic gain was larger for BLUP selection than for phenotypic selection in all scenarios. However, BLUP selection resulted in higher rates of inbreeding. By applying OCS, the rate of inbreeding was lowered to about the same level as phenotypic selection but with increased genetic improvement. For efficient selection against HD, use of BLUP breeding values should be prioritized. In small populations, BLUP should be used together with OCS or similar strategy to maintain genetic variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is a common and debilitating developmental condition of the canine coxofemoral (hip) joint, exhibiting a multifactorial pattern of inheritance. British Veterinary Association hip traits (BVAHTs) are nine radiographic features of hips used in several countries to ordinally score both the right and left hip of potential breeding candidates to assess their suitability for breeding. The objective of this study was to examine some aspects of the relationship between contralateral scores for each BVAHT in a cohort of 13 124 Australian-registered German Shepherd Dogs. Goodman and Kruskal gamma coefficients of 0.48-0.95 and correlation coefficients of 0.50-0.74 demonstrate that the association between right and left hip scores varies between moderate and strong for BVAHTs. Principal component analysis of scores detected a sizeable left-versus-right effect, a finding supported by symmetry and quasi-symmetry analyses which found that seven of the nine BVAHTs display significant marginal asymmetry. Dogs showing asymmetry for one BVAHT are significantly more likely to display asymmetry at other BVAHTs. When asymmetry is expressed as a binary trait (either symmetrical or asymmetrical), it displays low to moderate heritability. Estimates of genetic correlations between right and left scores are very high for all BVAHTs (>0.945), suggesting right and left scores for each BVAHT are largely determined by the same set of genes. The marginal asymmetries are therefore more likely to be of environmental and non-additive genetic origin. In breeding programmes for CHD, we recommend that scores from both hips be used to estimate breeding values, with a term for side-of-hip included in the model to account for score variation owing to asymmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results from radiographic screening for canine hip dysplasia (CHD) and elbow dysplasia (CED) of 48 367 German shepherd dogs born in 2001-07 were used for the population genetic analyses. Available information included CHD scores for 47 730 dogs, CED scores for 28 011 dogs and detailed veterinary diagnoses of primary ED lesions for a subsample of 18 899 dogs. Quasi-continuous traits were CHD, CED and cases of CED without radiographically visible primary lesion (CED-ARTH). Binary coding was used for fragmented medial coronoid process of the ulna (FCP), borderline findings and mild to severe signs of dysplasia in hip and elbow joints. Genetic parameters were estimated in univariate threshold and multivariate linear and mixed linear-threshold models using Gibbs sampling. Correlations between univariately predicted breeding values (BV) indicated genetic differences between borderline and affected disease status for both CHD ( r = 0.5) and CED ( r = 0.3). Multivariate genetic analyses with separate consideration of borderline findings revealed moderate heritabilities of 0.2-0.3 for the quasi-continuous traits with positive additive genetic correlation of 0.3 between CHD and both CED and CED-ARTH. For FCP, heritability of 0.6 and additive genetic correlations of +0.1 to CHD and −0.1 to CED-ARTH were estimated. Results supported the relevant genetic determination of CHD and CED, argued for both diseases against interpretation of borderline findings as healthy and implied genetic heterogeneity of CED. Accordingly, future breeding strategies to reduce the prevalences of CHD and CED in the German shepherd dog should be most efficient when based on BV from multivariate genetic evaluation for CHD, CED-ARTH and FCP with use of the whole scale of categories for classification of CHD and CED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different modes of selection in dogs were studied with a special focus on the availability of disease information. Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) in the German shepherd dog was used as an example. The study was performed using a simulation model, comparing cases when selection was based on phenotype, true or predicted breeding value, or genomic breeding value. The parameters in the simulation model were drawn from the real population data. The data on all parents and 40% of their progeny were assumed to be available for the genetic evaluation carried out by Gibbs sampling. With respect to the use of disease records on progeny, three scenarios were considered: random exclusion of disease data (no restrictions, N), general exclusion of disease data (G) and exclusion of disease data for popular sires (P). One round of selection was considered, and the response was expressed as change of mean CHD score, proportion of dogs scored as normal, proportion of dogs scored as clearly affected and true mean breeding value in progeny of popular sires in comparison with all sires. When no restrictions on data were applied, selection on breeding value was three times more efficient than when some systematic exclusion was practised. Higher selection response than in the exclusion cases was achieved by selecting on the basis of genomic breeding value and CHD score. Genomic selection would therefore be the method of choice in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to use two palpation methods (Bardens and Ortolani), a radiographic distraction view, three computed tomography (CT) measurements (dorsolateral subluxation score, the lateral center-edge angle, and acetabular ventroversion angle) and two magnetic resonance (MR) imaging hip studies (synovial fluid and acetabular depth indices) in the early monitoring of hip morphology and laxity in 7–9 week old puppies; and in a follow-up study to compare their accuracy in predicting later hip laxity and dysplasia. The MR imaging study was performed with the dog in dorsal recumbency and the CT study with the animal in a weight-bearing position. There was no association between clinical laxity with later hip laxity or dysplasia. The dorsolateral subluxation score and the lateral center-edge angle were characterized by a weak negative correlation with later radiographic passive hip laxity (−0.26< r<−0.38, P<0.05) but its association with hip dysplasia was not significant. There was an association between early radiographic passive hip laxity and synovial fluid index with later passive hip laxity (0.41< r<0.55, P<0.05) and this was significantly different in dysplastic vs. nondysplastic hips ( P<0.05). There was no association between the remaining variables and later hip laxity or dysplasia. The overlapping ranges of early passive hip laxity and synovial fluid index for hip dysplasia grades and the moderate correlations with the later passive hip laxity make the results of these variables unreliable for use in predicting hip laxity and dysplasia susceptibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventrodorsal extended hip radiographs were analyzed from Foxhounds, Irish setters, Greyhounds, and Labrador retrievers radiographed four to seven times between 8 and 110 weeks of age. Occurrence in these 91 dogs of a puppy line, an ill-defined zone of proximal femoral metaphyseal sclerosis, a femoral neck linear sclerosis, or circumferential linear femoral head osteophytosis at 15–17 weeks of age were compared with hip joint laxity, as measured by distraction index, and to later findings of caudal curvilinear femoral neck osteophytes, circumferential femoral head osteophytes, hip incongruity consistent with hip dysplasia and degenerative joint disease by 52 weeks of age. A puppy line and/or femoral metaphyseal sclerosis was common at 15–17 weeks of age for dogs at mimimal risk (Greyhounds) and high risk (Foxhounds) of developing early degenerative joint disease associated with canine hip dysplasia. Though 44% of Greyhound hips had puppy lines and 28% had femoral metaphyseal sclerosis at 15–17 weeks of age, no Greyhound had a caudolateral curvilinear osteophyte or circumferential femoral head osteophyte at 24–27 or 52 weeks of age. No significant relationship was found between occurrence of a puppy line, a circumferential femoral head osteophyte or femoral metaphyseal sclerosis at 15–17 weeks and canine hip dysplasia or degenerative joint disease incidence at 42–52 weeks. Presence of a caudolateral curvilinear osteophyte in at least one hip at 24–27 weeks was significantly related to the diagnosis of canine hip dysplasia by 42–52 weeks. When both a caudolateral curvilinear osteophyte and a circumferential femoral head osteophyte were present in a hip at 24–27 weeks, degenerative joint disease was evident in all such hips by 42–52 weeks of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to estimate genetic parameters and genetic trends for hip (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) in Swedish Rottweiler (RW) and Bernese Mountain Dog (BMD). Analyses were based on screening results of hip status for 14 693 RW and 8221 BMD and elbow status for 11 891 RW and 7963 BMD, as well as pedigree data for 16 614 RW and 9835 BMD, recorded by the Swedish Kennel Club. Components of (co)variance and breeding values were obtained with a mixed linear animal model. The model included the fixed effects of sex, birth month, age at screening and a combined random effect of clinic and year of examination. The need to include genetic groups for phantom parents in the model was evaluated by comparison of two different models: with and without genetic groups. Estimated heritabilities for HD and ED were between 0.34 and 0.42. The genetic correlation between the traits was weak and positive for RW ( r g = 0.23 ± 0.05) and not different from zero for BMD ( r g = 0.06 ± 0.06). F-statistics of the genetic group effects were not significant, implying that genetic groups do not need to be included in the model. Genetic trends indicated a genetic improvement in both traits. However, a faster genetic progress is expected if selection is based on predicted breeding values rather than phenotype. Based on the results, a statistical model for routine prediction of breeding values for HD and ED in Swedish dogs was suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hip laxity is one characteristic of canine hip dysplasia (CHD), an inheritable disease that leads to hip osteoarthritis. Using a genome-wide screen with 250 microsatellites in a crossbreed pedigree of 159 dysplastic Labrador retrievers and unaffected greyhounds, we previously identified putative ( P < 0.01) QTL on canine chromosomes 11 and 29 (CFA11 and CFA29). To refine these QTL locations, we have genotyped 257 dogs including 105 Labrador retrievers, seven greyhounds, four generations of their crossbreed offspring and three German shepherds for 111 and 171 SNPs on CFA11 and CFA29 respectively. The distraction index (DI, a measure of maximum hip laxity) was used as an intermediate phenotype that predicts whether a hip joint will or will not develop osteoarthritis. Using a multipoint linkage analysis, significant evidence (95% posterior probability) was found for QTL contributing to hip laxity in the 16.2–21 cM region on CFA11 that explained 15–18% of the total variance in DI. Evidence for an independent QTL on CFA29 was weaker than that on CFA11. Identification of the causative mutation(s) will lead to better understanding of biochemical pathways in both dogs and humans with hip laxity and dysplasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hip palpation has been used to provide semiquantitative information regarding passive joint laxity and susceptibility to hip dysplasia. The purpose of this study was to: (1) evaluate the intra- and inter-examiner repeatability of the hip reduction angle measured at 4 months of age by three examiners using manual goniometry and an electromagnetic tracking system; (2) compare the hip reduction angle measured with manual goniometry to the hip reduction angle measured with the electromagnetic tracking system; and (3) evaluate the hip reduction angle, distraction index and Ortolani manoeuvre at 4 months of age as predictors of the development of hip osteoarthritis at 12 months of age in 11 Labrador Retriever dogs. Intra- and inter-examiner repeatability was demonstrated for both the manual and electromagnetic goniometric measurement of the hip reduction angle (coefficient of variation < 4.3% and < 6.1%; and P = 0.163 and P = 0.836 respectively). The hip reduction angle measured by manual goniometry was moderately correlated to the hip reduction angle measured by the electromagnetic tracking system (r = 0.603, P < 0.0000). The hip reduction angle measured by manual and electromagnetic goniometry was a poor predictor of osteoarthritis at 12 months of age (r = 0.231, P < 0.062, and r = 0.321, P < 0.01). The distraction index was moderately correlated with the development of osteoarthritis by 12 months of age (r = 0.493, P < 0.0000). The Ortolani sign was sensitive (100%) but not specific (41%) for the development of osteoarthritis at 12 months of age. The hip reduction angle did not further quantify the Ortolani manoeuvre as a predictor of osteoarthritis in Labrador Retrievers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term outcome for dogs treated non-surgically for clinical signs of canine hip dysplasia were evaluated retrospectively; 74 dogs were evaluated by a postal questionnaire sent to their owners, and 24 of these were also evaluated by a veterinary clinical examination. A total of 11 outcome variables were evaluated. Depending on the variable assessed, between 31(41.9 per cent) and 49 (66.2 per cent) of the dogs remained clinically affected according to their owner's assessment, and between 17 (70.8 per cent) and 23 (95.8 per cent) of the 24 dogs had abnormalities attributed to hip osteoarthritis according to the veterinary assessment Orthopaedic abnormalities other than hip dysplasia affected 17 of the 24 dogs. Long-term medications had been prescribed for the treatment of clinical signs associated with hip dysplasia in 41 of the 74 dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A radiographic study was conducted to evaluate the effect of pelvic rotation and of simulated dorsal acetabular rim (DAR) remodeling on the radiographic appearance of the dorsal acetabular edge (DAE). The DAE is the line connecting the cranial and caudal rims of the acetabulum when viewing a pelvic radiograph made with the dog in the ventrodorsal position with the hind limbs extended. In this study, it was hypothesized that the DAE would change with pelvic rotation and simulated DAR damage. Ventrodorsal radiographs of eight canine pelves were made at 0°, 5°, and 10° of left and right pelvic rotation over its longitudinal axis. These radiographs were repeated following removal of 2, 4, and then 6 mm of bone from the right DAR of each pelvis. The ratio of acetabular width to maximum depth of the DAE was calculated. The area between the DAE and a straight line connecting the cranial and caudal acetabular rims was measured digitally. The DAE depth and area changed with pelvic rotation, and with increasing simulated DAR damage. A linear relationship between the obturator foramina width ratio and pelvic rotation allowed estimation of the degree and direction of pelvic rotation. Equations were developed from the data to assist with the estimation of the amount of DAR remodeling on a clinical radiograph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the usefulness of dexmedetomidine for restraint and sedation during hip radiographic examination of hip-extended or stress-radiography views when combined with either buprenorphine, butorphanol or diazepam. Methods: One hundred and twenty-seven client-owned clinically healthy golden retrievers or rottweilers were enrolled in a clinical trial that compared hip-extended and PennHIP methods for diagnosing hip dysplasia and were randomly allocated to receive dexmedetomidine or medetomidine in combination with buprenorphine, butorphanol or diazepam. Subjective assessments were made for response to pain, response to noise, palpebral reflex, muscle tone and overall quality of sedation; non-invasive physiological variables were also recorded. Results: Overall quality of sedation was graded as good or excellent for dogs administered with a combination of butorphanol or diazepam. However, more dogs that received a combination involving buprenorphine had overall a relatively poorer quality of sedation and required additional administration of buprenorphine before the radiographic procedure could commence. Once sedated, clinically sufficient muscle relaxation accompanied by a very low proportion of dogs responding to pain or noise stimuli were observed in all treatment groups. Heart and respiratory rate, and procedure and recovery times were similar for all treatment groups, and no adverse events were observed during the study. Clinical Significance: Dexmedetomidine sedative protocols, particularly in combination with butorphanol and diazepam, can be used effectively and safely in dogs for radiographic procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LTV) was determined by reviewing the pelvic radiographs of 4000 medium- and large-breed dogs of 144 breeds routinely screened for canine hip dysplasia. An LTV was seen in 138 (3.5%) dogs. The prevalence was higher in German Shepherd dogs and Greater Swiss Mountain dogs than in the other breeds, suggesting a genetic predisposition. There was no gender predisposition. The transverse processes of the LTV were divided into three types based on their morphological characteristics: lumbar type or type 1; intermediate type or type 2; and sacral type or type 3. In a symmetric LTV, both transverse processes are of the same type, while in an asymmetric LTV they are not. The frequency of occurrence of symmetric and asymmetric LTV was similar. In symmetric LTV, intermediate-type transverse processes predominated. Most of the asymmetric LTV had an intermediate-type transverse process combined with a lumbar or sacral type, respectively. Highly asymmetric LTV were often angled relative to the adjacent vertebrae. We hypothesize that an LTV is not the result of transformation of a lumbar into a sacral vertebra or vice versa, but rather is an autonomous intermediate type of vertebra. It occurs when the point of contact of the pelvis with the vertebral column is slightly cranial or caudal to its normal position. The resulting formative stimulus on the vertebral ossification centers, sagittally still separated, causes the various morphologies seen in LTV including the asymmetric variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents an analysis of the canine EDAR gene and exclusion as a candidate for the hairless phenotype in the Chinese Crested dog. Source and description of ectodermal dysplasias, syndromes affecting several organs that develop from the embryonic ectoderm; Radiation hybrid mapping; Mutation analysis.

Summary Variance components and heritability were linearly estimated for canine hip dysplasia (CHD) in German Shepherd Dogs using a Bayesian analysis based on the marginal posterior distributions of parameters achieved via Gibbs sampling. Data was provided by the German Shepherd Breeding Association in Augsburg. The material included 21 371 X-rayed dogs born in the years 1998–2000 in 3755 kennels from 9704 litters. The pedigree file consisted of 38 604 animals and contained ancestors for up to six generations. The full model used considered the fixed effects of sex, age at examination for CHD, the examining veterinary expert, the combined effect of litter size and percentage of examined dogs per litter, and the sire and mother lines as well as the additive genetic random effects of the animal and of the mother, the permanent environmental effect of the litter and the kennel. Submodels were compared with the full model to evaluate the importance of different fixed and random effects, and their influence on other model components. Heritability estimates in the full model were h 2 = 0.26 ± 0.03 (additive genetic animal effect) and &formmu0; = 0.10 ± 0.02 (additive genetic maternal effect). The direct animal and the maternal effects were negatively correlated genetically (r am = -0.65 ± 0.05). The proportion of the variance of the random effect of the common kennel of the total variance was always below 0.015, whereas the corresponding proportion of variance of the random effect of the common litter effect reached a value of 0.045. When submodels were employed, the heritability estimates for the additive genetic animal effect ranged from h 2 = 0.24 to h 2 = 0.26. The heritability estimates for the additive genetic maternal effect varied between &formmu1; = 0.09 and &formmu2; = 0.10. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Variance components and genetic parameters for hip dysplasia (HD) in a population of 1372 Newfoundlands were estimated using restricted maximum likelihood method applied to animal models comprising fixed effects of gender, screening expert and HD grading system. All models investigated included a random direct genetic effect, but differed for combinations of random maternal genetic effect, permanent maternal environmental effect and kennel effect. Although kennels had no effect on HD, the permanent maternal environmental effects, however were significant. The results for the maternal genetic effect were ambiguous. These results suggest a confounding of these three random effects. The model that included the fixed effects, the direct genetic effect and the permanent maternal environmental effect was the most parsimonious combined with an optimal fit. The heritability estimated with this model was 0.28 and the proportion of the permanent maternal environmental effect of the phenotypic variance was 0.10. The effects of gender and screening expert were significant but not the one of HD grading system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The heritability of hip dysplasia in the German Shepherd Dog was estimated by applying the animal model and the Restricted Maximum Likelihood (REML) method to a data-set which consisted of the hip scores of 10 335 dogs. Fixed effects of the model were the month and the year of birth, screening age, the panelist responsible for screening and the origin of the animal's sire. The litter and the breeder had only minor effects on hip joints. Heritability estimates were moderate (0.31–0.35). The moderate heritability, which was found in this study, enables a much better genetic gain in the breeding programme, if proper evaluation methods, such as BLUP animal model, and effective selection is used instead of phenotypic selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study that investigates canine hip dysplasia (CHD) in the Irish water spaniels. The study obtains anonymised breeding records for all dogs registered with the British Irish Water Spaniel Society on or before August 28, 2009 and explores the cases of CHD. It reveals that CHD is a complex trait, which is almost certainly governed by multiple gene interactions.

Hip dysplasia (HD) scores, based on the five grades, as defined by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, were compared between anaesthetized (group 1, n = 3839) and non-sedated non-anaesthetized dogs (group 2, n = 1517). Each dog was radiographed in the standard ventro-dorsal hip joint extended position. Each radiograph was evaluated by the same reader blinded regarding the dog's status of anaesthesia. Results showed that there was a significant difference in hip dysplasia prevalence between group 1 (22%) compared with group 2 (9%) ( P < 0.005). This difference was the result of a lower rate of hip-joint laxity assessment and the measurement of Norberg–Olsson angle <105° in group 2 compared with group 1. The acetabular and femoral morphologies were not significantly different between the groups. The data confirm that the scoring of dogs for HD on standard radiographs with the hip joints extended is influenced by anaesthesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Elbow dysplasia is one of the most important orthopaedic diseases of the canine elbow joint. The medial coronoid process (MCP) and the anconeal process (AP) are involved with a high incidence. Aims: The aim of this study was to clarify whether these processes are especially loaded resulting in osteoarthrosis. Material and Methods: Elbow joints were examined from dogs of various breeds, with a body weight over 20 kg and an age ranging from 1 to 12 years. Only joints without damage to the articular cartilage have been included in this investigation. Articular surfaces have been evaluated macroscopically, subchondral bone density (long-term loading) and split-lines (long-term tensile loading) have been determined. Results: In the humeral fossa olecrani, there was a distinct impression on the inner side of the lateral compared to the medial epicondyle. In the ulna, the MCP was much greater than the lateral coronoid indicating that the medial process has to support the humeral condyle to a higher extent. Subchondral split lines with a transverse orientation in the fossa olecrani gave evidence of long-term transverse tensile loading in this area. Split lines on the MCP were oriented radially as if the lateral edge was bent downwards. Subchondral bone density in the fossa olecrani was higher towards the lateral epicondyle in comparison to the medial. Furthermore, there was a bone density maximum on the medial part of the humeral condyle opposite of the MCP with its very high density. Discussion: Gait analyses showed that there is a transverse, medially oriented force of up to 4% bodyweight acting on the paw during midstance. As the carpus is stable when slightly hyperextended during midstance loading there is a long lever arm from the ground up to an assumed rotation centre in the depth of the trochlear notch. The medially directed ground reaction force slightly rotates the forearm inwards causing a bending moment about the elbow joint, which leads to an increased pressure of the AP and the MCP. This bending in addition to sagittal loading is the reason for the high susceptibility of the MCP and AP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses results from two of the Canine Health Schemes, namely Hip Dysplasia Scheme and the Elbow Dysplasia Scheme, run by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the British Kennel Club that reportedly show reduction in the incidence and severity of hip and elbow dysplasia.

The article provides information on the London Vet Show held on November 19, 2015 with focus on the launching of Hip Dysplasia Scheme by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and Kennel Club (KC).

The article traces the history of the British Veterinary Association (BVA)/Kennel Club (KC) Hip Dysplasia Scheme for dogs.

The article presents a case-control population association study which aimed to develop a prognostic genetic test for early diagnosis of canine hip dysplasia (CHD) in a study group of Labrador retrievers.

The article discusses the canine hip dysplasia (CHD) in many dog breeds such as Tibetan terriers which arises from incorrect coxofemoral joint development in dogs. Several breed-specific or genetic-based studies and polygenetic interactions involving CHD are discussed. The high hip score in small animals and the complex trait in multiple gene interactions are also considered.

The article reports on the price increases for the British Veterinary Association (BVA)/Kennel Club (KC) Canine Health Schemes from January 1, 2015 such as Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Schemes, Eye Scheme, and Chiari-like Malformation/Syringomyelia (CM/SM) Scheme.

Several tables are presented which provide data on the changes of fees for various British Veterinary Association (BVA)/Kennel Club (KC) canine health schemes such as the International Sheep Dog Society (ISDA) Eye Scheme, the Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Schemes, and Chiari-like Malformation/ Syringomyelia (CM/SM) Scheme.

A letter to the editor is presented regarding the incidence of hip dysplasia in Newfoundland dogs.

The article presents abstracts related to veterinary medicine including "Investigating the role of genetic factors in predisposing cattle to BNP," by K. Krappmann and colleagues, "Hip dysplasia and the development of clinical signs in dogs," by R. I. Krontveit and colleagues, and "Developing affordable assays for the detection of Eimeria in chickens," by C. P. Barkway and colleagues.

The article summarizes several studies on veterinary medicine published in other periodicals in 2010. A study published in the "Journal of Small Animal Practice" investigated the link between risk factors for osteoarthritis and canine hip dysplasia (CHD) in large breeds of dog. A study published in the "Preventive Veterinary Medicine" evaluated risk of contamination of sheep meat with Campylobacter species. A study on the efficacy of ivermectin as an alternative treatment method for horses was discussed in a 2010 issue of "Veterinary Parasitology."

The article focuses on the three Canine Health Schemes initiated by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) in 2009. It states that over 31,000 certificates were issued across the schemes which cause some disruption on the department. Among these schemes include the Eye Scheme which allows breeders to be aware of the necessity of clinical examinations. Another is the Hip and Elbow dysplasia schemes to which the department has its system to digitally scrutinize the animals.

A response by G. T. Jaeger and colleagues to a letter to the editor about their article on the pain-relieving effects of the implantation of golf beads into dogs with hip dysplasia is presented.

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article by G. T. Jaeger and colleagues on the pain-relieving effects of the implantation of gold beads into dogs with hip dysplasia.

An abstract of the article "Outcomes of Non-Surgical Treatment of Hip Dysplasia" is presented.

The article reports on the issues concerning the number of certificates issued under the BVA/KC/ISDS eye scheme in 2005 to 2006 in Great Britain. According to the report, the number of the certificates issued had remained consistent with previous years, with over 18,000 dogs being examined. The report has added that elbow dysplasia scheme has also shown an encouraging increase in submissions of nearly 20 percent, while submissions to the hip dysplasia scheme had remained stable.

The article focuses on health care schemes for dogs in Great Britain. The number of certificates processed by the Canine Health Schemes for the hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and eye schemes increased by 26 percent in 2004. The most significant increase was in the elbow dysplasia scheme, where over 1200 submissions were processed, an increase of 45 percent on 2003. This is thought to be a result of procedural changes to the scheme made in January 2004 whereby a reduction in the number of views was requested, along with a reduced fee for combined hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia submissions for the same dog.

Focuses on the use of computed tomography for measurements of the hip joint in German shepherd dogs by Kamil Ocal and colleagues. Prevalence of hip dysplasia; Width of the acetabulum.

Reports on the changes to the British Veterinary Association and Kennel Club canine health schemes from January 1, 2004. Citation of a major procedural change to the Elbow Dysplasia Scheme; Requirement for only two elbow views and the removal of the craniocaudal view.

Reveals the canine health schemes of the British Veterinary Association for veterinary surgeons. Aim to improve their client services; Alliance with the Kennel Club; Hip dysplasia scheme; Elbow dysplasia scheme; Eye scheme.