Defining and Understanding OCD Shoulder Repair in Dogs

What Is It?

Osteochondritis dissecans, called OCD, is a developmental cartilage disease. In the shoulder, a flap of thickened cartilage can separate from the bone surface and cause pain and lameness. Surgical removal of the flap and treatment of the defect allow healthy tissue to fill the area and improve comfort and function.

Who Gets It?

Large and giant breed puppies and adolescents, often from 5 to 12 months of age.
Rapid growth, genetics, and overnutrition are contributing factors.
Males are reported more commonly affected in some breeds.

Signs Owners May Notice

Front limb lameness that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
Stiffness after play or naps, short stride in the front limb.
Reluctance to fetch, jump, or bear weight through the shoulder.
Muscle loss over the shoulder with long standing cases.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Your veterinarian examines joint comfort and range of motion. Radiographs are commonly used to identify changes on the humeral head. Advanced imaging or diagnostic arthroscopy may be recommended to confirm a cartilage flap and to guide treatment planning.

Why Consider Surgery and What Are the Options?

Surgery is recommended when a flap is present or when lameness persists. The goal is to remove loose cartilage, stimulate healing, and minimize long term arthritis. Options are tailored to the lesion size and age of the dog:

Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive camera guided removal of the flap and debridement.
Open surgery: Used for selected cases when access is limited.
Microfracture or forage: Small holes in the bone bed to encourage fibrocartilage fill.
Cartilage grafting or plugs: Considered in larger defects based on surgeon assessment.

Why You Should See a Veterinary Surgeon

OCD repair benefits from specialized equipment and experience. A board certified surgeon or a veterinarian with advanced orthopedic training will choose the safest approach, remove diseased tissue completely, and provide a structured plan for recovery and rehabilitation.

What Does Surgery Involve? (High Level)

Under anesthesia, the surgeon removes the loose cartilage flap and prepares the defect bed. Many cases are managed arthroscopically through small portals. The joint is flushed and bandaged as needed. Dogs go home with activity restrictions and pain control, plus a follow up schedule.

Risks and Recovery Expectations

Potential risks include infection, stiffness, or persistent lameness if secondary arthritis is present. Most young dogs improve markedly after surgery. A period of controlled activity is required while soft tissues settle and strength returns.

What Is Post-Op Like?

First 2 weeks: Rest with short leash trips for toileting. E cone on at all times to protect the incision sites. Cold packing may be recommended by your veterinarian.
Weeks 3 to 6: Gradual increase in controlled walking. Gentle range of motion and early strengthening begin under veterinary guidance.
Rehabilitation: Targeted shoulder and core work improves gait, reduces stiffness, and supports joint health.
Long term: Many dogs return to normal activity. Some may need lifelong sensible exercise and weight control to limit arthritis.

Benefits of Physical Rehabilitation

Pain and swelling control: Safe modalities and gentle techniques improve comfort.
Range of motion: Guided exercises prevent capsular tightness and maintain smooth shoulder movement.
Strength and symmetry: Progressive plans rebuild shoulder stabilizers and prevent overloading the opposite limb.
Gait retraining: Restores a confident stride and better weight bearing on the surgical limb.

How to Help Your Dog at Home

Follow the surgeon's instructions: Use the cone, give medications as directed, and keep activity controlled.
Non slip environment: Add rugs or runners and block furniture to prevent jumping.
Harness control: Use a well fitted body harness for safe leash walks.
Weight management: Keep a lean body condition to protect the joint.
Comfortable bedding: Provide thick, supportive bedding and keep it clean and dry.

Tips for Success

Practice cone use early: Short positive sessions before surgery make full time use easier afterward.
Confinement training: Introduce a crate or pen before surgery so rest feels familiar and safe.
Plan calm enrichment: Food puzzles and low arousal training keep the mind busy without stressing the shoulder.
Surface safety: Use traction paths to the door and feeding area to avoid slips.
Rehab commitment: Attend scheduled sessions and follow the home plan to protect results.

Prognosis

Early diagnosis and appropriate surgical repair give most young dogs an excellent chance to return to comfortable daily activity. Outcomes improve with weight control, sensible exercise, and a structured rehabilitation program guided by your veterinary team.