[en] In this presentation, osteochondritis dissecans of the canine tarsal joint is characterized based on a review of 96 cases in the literature and 123 cases from the Veterinary Medical Data Base. Labrador retrievers and rottweilers were most often affected. If breed popularity is considered, the bull mastiff had the highest incidence of tarsal osteochondritis dissecans. Most dogs were between six months and one year of age; however, 18% were older than two years of age at the time of presentation. Females accounted for 53% of the cases of tarsal osteochondritis dissecans, in contrast with osteochondritis of other joints, in which males predominated. Bilateral lesions occurred in 44% of the dogs, which is less than the reported incidence for osteochondritis dissecans of other joints. Seventy-five percent of the lesions occurred at the medial trochlear ridge; most lesions were located in the plantar half Radiographic imaging of the lesion may be difficult but can be improved via oblique and flexed dorsoplantar projections. Most authors advocate surgery; however, results after surgery compared with results of conservative therapy make the choice of treatment debatable. The surgical approach affects postsurgical function of the joint. Approaches that avoid osteotomy and desmotomy cause the least morbidity. Prognosis of patients is guarded and depends on several factors, of which size of the lesion is probably the most important. Radiographic appearance of the joint does not necessarily correspond with the severity of the lameness