What should I do if my dog has been diagnosed with elbow dysplasia?

Take a breath — catching it is the hardest part. Your next decisions center on three things: managing pain now, deciding on surgery, and long-term joint care. Surgery is often the best option and gives the best long-term outcome, especially for younger dogs, but it's not the only path. Weight management is critical (every extra pound stresses the joint), joint supplements like omega-3s and glucosamine can help, and physical therapy or hydrotherapy is genuinely effective. Our vets can walk you through what questions to ask your surgeon, which supplements actually have evidence behind them, and how to set up your home to reduce strain on the elbows.