Developmental Orthopedic Disease in Horses – Prevention Through Nutrition and Supplementation

Understanding Developmental Orthopedic Disease (DOD)

Developmental Orthopedic Disease (DOD) is a broad term describing a group of musculoskeletal disorders that affect growing horses, especially foals, weanlings, and yearlings. These conditions can include osteochondrosis (OCD), physitis, angular limb deformities, subchondral bone cysts, and juvenile arthritis. DOD can compromise a horse’s future soundness, athletic potential, and overall well-being.

The underlying causes of DOD are multifactorial, involving genetics, rapid growth, trauma, and—most importantly—nutrition. While we cannot control a horse’s genetic makeup, we can significantly influence skeletal development through carefully managed feeding programs and proper supplementation.

 

How Nutrition Impacts Skeletal Development

Young horses grow at an extraordinary rate, and their bones and joints must develop strong and balanced to support future athletic careers. Nutritional imbalances, however, can disrupt this process. Problems often arise when:

  • Diets are too high in energy (leading to rapid growth and excess body weight).
  • Key minerals are lacking or improperly balanced.
  • Vitamin intake is insufficient to support optimal bone metabolism.

 

Key Minerals for Preventing DOD

To reduce the risk of DOD, broodmares and growing horses need a balanced intake of specific nutrients. Some of the most critical include:

  • Calcium & Phosphorus – Essential for bone mineralization. The correct ratio (generally between 1.5:1 and 2:1 calcium to phosphorus) is just as important as total intake.
  • Copper – Plays a vital role in cartilage development and collagen cross-linking. Deficiency has been strongly associated with OCD and weak connective tissue.
  • Zinc – Works with copper in bone and cartilage metabolism. Imbalance between zinc and copper can worsen developmental problems.
  • Manganese – Necessary for proper cartilage and bone formation.
  • Magnesium – Contributes to bone strength and metabolic regulation.
  • Vitamin D – Helps regulate calcium absorption and utilization.
  • Vitamin E & Selenium – Support muscle development and reduce oxidative stress that can impact joint health.

The Role of Quality Supplements: Equi-Shine as an Example

Even with the best forage and grain program, gaps in mineral and vitamin intake often occur. This is where high-quality supplements become invaluable. Products like Equi-Shine are specifically formulated to support skeletal health in broodmares, foals, and yearlings by providing bioavailable minerals in the correct ratios. Regular use helps ensure that no critical nutrient is missing during peak growth phases.

A proactive broodmare and young horse nutrition program—with the right balance of energy, protein, and targeted supplements—can reduce the risk of skeletal disorders and set the foundation for a sound, successful career.

 

A Personal Story: Dr. Meyer’s Experience

“A friend of mine had a yearling she had purchased come up lame. On a lameness exam she was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. In her quest to find a sound yearling for future performance she had 2 more prepurchase exams done on 2 other horses. One horse had the beginning of a cyst in the stifle joint, and the other yearling had a spur in one of its hocks. The veterinarian doing the prepurchase exam said it is becoming difficult to find a horse without issues and unfortunately you might just have to choose the one with the least number of issues.” – Dr. Meyer

This story underscores the importance of prevention. While some horses may develop orthopedic issues despite careful management, a sound nutrition and supplement strategy—including quality products like Equi-Shine—provides young horses the best chance at growing into strong, athletic, and sound adults.

 

Developmental Orthopedic Disease is a growing concern in the equine industry, particularly as breeders and owners aim for high-performance prospects. While no program can guarantee a completely issue-free horse, thoughtful nutrition, correct mineral balance, and quality supplementation can make a profound difference. Investing in preventive strategies today may be the key to avoiding heartache and lost potential tomorrow.

  • Balanced Nutrition Prevents Many Growth Problems
  • Equi-Shine Provides Minerals in the Correct Ratios
  • Healthy Mares = Healthier Foals = Sounder Performance Animals

Stronger bones and joints today mean a stronger, healthier performance horse tomorrow.