Causes
A disturbance of cartilage development, linked to rapid growth, excess calories and calcium in the puppy's diet, and genetics. Large and giant breeds.
Diagnosis
X-rays, sometimes CT or MRI.
Treatment
Mild cases: rest, weight control, pain management. Cases with a detached fragment: surgery (often arthroscopic) to remove it.
Prevention
A correct diet for large-breed puppies (without excess calories or calcium), avoiding high-impact exercise during growth.

