Will My Dog’s Swollen Elbow Go Away?

Our dogs bring us so much joy. The last thing we want is for them to be in pain. That’s why it’s so upsetting when you notice that your dog’s elbow has become swollen. It’s important that you figure out what’s causing the problem so that you can properly treat it.

Hair loss, thickening of the skin, and swelling of the elbow is extremely common, especially in larger breeds. These symptoms might indicate that your dog has developed a callus or an elbow hygroma.

Dog Elbow Calluses

A callus is a hairless thickening of the skin caused by sleeping or resting on concrete or other hard surfaces. Calluses continue to grow over time and can eventually reach the bone, making treatment more difficult.

Calluses are extremely common and do not require immediate attention. However, it’s important that you take extra care to ensure the callus does not become infected or turn into an elbow hygroma.

Provide your dog with a soft place to lie. This might be a dog bed or a foam mattress. You may need to experiment with a few different things before you find what your dog prefers.

Keep the callus moisturized with coconut oil. Your dog will be more comfortable and applying moisturizer daily can make the callus almost disappear.

If your notice rapid changes to the callus or dog has been scratching or licking it, you will need to have them seen by a veterinarian. A fast growing callus could be a sign of cancer and calluses can become infected. Your vet can help you determine the best course of action.

Dog Elbow Hygromas

An elbow hygroma is a fluid-filled swelling of the elbow. Calluses and hygromas both form from constant pressure. However, an elbow hygroma is more serious and you should take your dog to the vet at the first sign of swelling.

Although your vet might recommend surgery to treat the hygroma, this is rare. The most common treatment involves drawing out the fluid and protecting the area from further damage while it heals.

Traditional bandages are inconvenient, difficult to apply, and often ineffective at protecting the elbow. Standard Length Adjustable DogLeggs™ were designed to treat and prevent elbow hygromas. This revolutionary product eliminates the risk of complications due to drainage or surgery. DogLeggs™ are easy to apply and provide just enough support and padding to protect the area from further injury.

DogLeggs™ are custom sized for each pet. This ensures the perfect fit, eliminating the chance of the product slipping out of place during use. We create our DogLeggs™ out of high quality materials to ensure durability. The product is machine washable.

Preventing Calluses and Elbow Hygromas

Calluses and elbow hygromas are easier to prevent than they are to treat. Providing your dog with a soft place to lie and keeping them at a healthy weight is a good place to start.

If your dog is prone to elbow hygromas or calluses, DogLeggs™ can help. DogLeggs™ provide padding and support. Veterinarians recommend these products for the prevention of elbow hygromas.

Please contact us for more information about our treating and preventing elbow swelling.