What is Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?

Posted by jenniferthomas424 on February 24th, 2021

Hip dysplasia in dogs affects giant and large breed dogs like Saint Bernards, German shepherds, golden retrievers, Newfoundland, and Labrador retrievers. It is a common developmental condition caused by hip deformity, resulting in mobility issues, pain, osteoarthritis, and looseness or laxity.

The condition is more pronounced when dogs are young, but the clinical signs become evident when they're much older. To prevent permanent deformity or problems, screen your pet for hip dysplasia when they're young.

What is Hip Dysplasia?

When a dog's hip joint (a ball and socket joint) does not develop normally, it can lead to an unstable and loose joint. This condition is known as dysplasia.

Hip dysplasia may result in serious problems for your dog because a dog that moves around with a loose hip joint can suffer permanent damage to the joint's anatomy. When left untreated, this condition may lead to osteoarthritis or degenerative joint diseases.

What causes hip dysplasia in dogs?

Hip Dysplasia in dogs is hereditary as a dog can pass the condition down to its offspring. Large breed dogs are more likely to suffer from the condition, but puppies are more at risk if they're being fed more food and grow and gain weight faster than before.

Engaging your dog in heavy exercise is another cause of this condition. Improper and unhealthy nutrition can also cause the condition. Obesity and underweight also cause it.

Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Dog hip dysplasia affects dogs of any age, but the symptoms are different. BelowBelow are the symptoms of Hip dysplasia in dogs according to age:

Juvenile Dogs (0-17 months)

• Difficulty walking
• Shifting weight to both front legs
• Limping (one or both legs)
• Hopping
• Clicking sound from the hips during movement
• Inability to exercise for too long

Mature Dogs (18 and above)

• Limping after exercise
• Inability to jump or climb well
• History of lameness in both legs at the back
• Loss of muscle mass in the back legs

Many dogs with hip dysplasia do not show clinical signs until after living with the condition for many years. That's why you must visit your vet regularly as soon as the symptoms begin to manifest. Your vet can diagnose the condition by carrying out hip x-rays or using their hands to examine the hip joint for any looseness.

Treatment

Many treatment options are available for hip dysplasia. Your vet will determine the best treatment based on the severity of the condition, your dog's lifestyle, or age.

Surgery is usually recommended in small dogs for long-term solutions. Older dogs, on the other hand, are usually placed on medical management to manage the pain at home. These treatments are usually monitored to prevent further problems.

Other treatment options available are physical therapy, cold laser therapy, and acupuncture. Usually, your veterinarian will work with you to find out the best options for your pet.

Ways to Prevent Hip Dysplasia

There are some ways to minimize the risk of hip dysplasia in your dog, such as paying careful attention to diet and exercise when they’re pups and ensuring they don’t become overweight.

Since it’s often a genetic condition, any dog displaying symptoms of hip dysplasia should not be used for breeding. Always buy dogs from reputable breeders who screen for health conditions in their dogs.