What is Knuckling?

    Carpal Flexural Deformity is the most common reason for a case of knuckling in an otherwise healthy pup.  During our breeding years, we have seen only one case of this, of which was completely out-grown by 15 weeks of age.  

    Knuckling looks as if their wrist is giving out and falling forward over their paw as they sit or walk, such as seen in this picture to the right of the 8 week old puppy.

    This can happen as puppies go through growth spurts. Any dog can develop carpal flexural deformity, although it is commonly seen in larger breeds, such as Basset Hounds. (Occasionally, it can also be caused by an excess of protein, so make sure you've got your puppy eating a large breed puppy food under 30% crude protein. 

    Usually, puppies under 4 months of age will show signs of over flexing or bulging their wrists forward.  The majority of the time, the dog’s wrists will straighten out on their own within a few weeks and will not require treatment, but using a wrap may be wise as your dog could develop a lifelong deformity.

    Below are some links we found very helpful during our experience with this condition.