The orthopedic exam is paramount in defining the region of pathology and in choosing which ancillary diagnostic to use for eventual establishment of a definitive diagnosis. Subtleties of the exam increase the sensitivy of detecting pathology and in some cases may be the most important finding for a definitive diagnosis. This lecture will focus on how to perform a comprehensive orthopedic exam in a chronologic fashion with a focus on tips and trick in all major joints. The exam findings will be linked to ancillary diagnostic techniques. The lecture will focus on case based examples of lameness presented with history, orthopedic exam, ancillary diagnostic findings, prognosis and treatment.