Hip dysplasia in dogs

Overview

Dogs are made to move. Their bones and muscles were designed to allow for flexibility, agility, and endurance. When a canine's natural movements are impeded by a bone disorder-as with hip dysplasia-this can mean pain for the animal. Serious cases may require medication or surgical correction.

Canine hip dysplasia: an inherited condition

An inherited defect, hip dysplasia signals an improperly formed hip joint. Because the joint doesn't fit together as snugly and smoothly as it should, a dog's leg bone will move around too much in its socket. Hip dysplasia commonly affects larger breeds of dogs, including German Shepherds, Rottweilers and retrievers, and it can develop when your pet is a puppy and worsen as he gets older. Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia should not be bred.

Symptoms

• Irritation in hind legs
• Scarring of hind legs
• Lameness and limping in hind legs
• Trouble getting up
• Pain in the hips when manipulated
• Muscle atrophy in the rear limbs from disuse

Prevention

Excess poundage can put extra stress on hip joints, so get your overweight pet on a diet – especially if he's a large breed and still a puppy. Ask your veterinarian for a sensible, effective program.

Large breed dogs that grow too rapidly may be predisposed to developing hip dysplasia.  Feeding your puppy a specific diet intended for growing large breed dogs is recommended. 

Treatment

To take away the ache from your animal companion's sore hips, apply a hot water bottle for about 10 to 15 minutes twice daily. You can also massage the muscles around his hip joints. Use very gentle pressure and rub in a circular motion with your fingertips or palm. Ten minutes should be tops, but do stop if your dog seems in any way uncomfortable.

Dogs with hip dysplasia benefit from at least two 20-minute leash walks a day. Keep going if your dog can easily handle a longer session – but let him set the pace. Swimming will do wonders for the muscles around your dog's joints, all without a lot of wear and tear. It's best to avoid jumping or prolonged running.

Your veterinarian will likely prescribe medications to help make your pet more comfortable.  Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements along with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS, eg: Rimadyl or Previcox) are often used to help with discomfort. 

There are surgical options to correct hip dysplasia and to increase your pet's quality of life.  Your veterinarian will discuss these options with you if they seem appropriate for your pet's situation. 

The future

There are various things you can do to make your pet as comfortable as possible. Dogs with hip dysplasia often have a hard time navigating slippery floors, so be sure to provide lots of traction for your pet. Use carpeting on slick surfaces. And if he needs to climb any stairs or hop into a car or truck, a carpeted ramp will make it easier. If your pet usually sleeps outdoors, bring him in if the weather's chilly and damp.