Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition that results from an incorrectly shaped hip joint. Because the joint is loose, the dog’s leg bone moves too much and causes painful wear and tear.
Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
How can I tell if my dog has hip dysplasia?
Some cases of hip dysplasia are so moderate there are no symptoms, but if your dog appears stiff or sore in the hips when standing up, if he looks hesitant to exercise, to stand on his hind legs, or to climb stairs, or when he does hobbles or hare skips, a visit to the vet would be appropriate.
When do dogs develop hip dysplasia?
Not all cases are the same it depends on the dog. Hip dysplasia may develop in puppies five months old, and it gets worse or does not appear until a dog has reached geriatric years. In most cases, however, the condition becomes visible in dogs in the mid or later years of their life.
How is hip dysplasia diagnosed?
An assessment of hip dysplasia will likely include a physical examination, x-rays, and manual assessment of your dog’s hips.
Which dogs are prone to hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia often affects larger breeds of dogs, including bulldogs, mastiffs, American Staffordshire terriers, St Bernard’s, retrievers, and Rottweilers. However, dogs of all breeds and sizes are prone to this hereditary condition, consisting of some small breeds such as pugs and French bulldogs.
How can hip dysplasia be treated?
Because hip dysplasia is caused by a hereditary defect, there are no products that can prevent hip replacement from developing. However, a combination of a wholesome diet, retaining an ordinary weight, exercise, massage, warm and dry sleeping areas, joint supplements, and possibly prescribing only veterinary pain-relieving medicine can assist in maintaining good condition. Your veterinarian will assist you with a daily pain reliever method that is perfect for your dog.
Should Dogs with Hip Dysplasia Exercise?
discuss with your dog’s vet about a proper exercise program. Moderate walking and running can help strengthen the muscles around the joint. It is okay to let your dog set the pace but try to avoid jumping or running long distances. If you’re able to consider letting your dog swim for exercise it will be great for the muscles around his joints.
Can a proper diet help Relieve symptoms of hip dysplasia?
Weight is an important factor that determines the comfort of your dog’s hips. The extra weight can add stress to the hip joints, so make certain that your dog is on a proper diet, especially if he is a large breed. You and your vet can work together to find the right feeding system for your dog.
What else can I do to relieve my dog’s pain?
Talk to your vet about the following tips:
- Massage the muscles around his hip joints and rub them gently in circular motions with your fingertips for no more than ten minutes. (Watch for his reaction. If the massage seems to irritate your dog’s hips, don’t proceed.)
- Your vet will provide prescription pain relievers to keep your dog pain-free.
- . Traction on slippery floors: Dogs with hip dysplasia often have a hard time on slippery floors. So put a rug down, and if he has to climb stairs or jump in the car, a rug and ramp will make it a lot easier for him.
- Apply warm water bottle twice a day for 15 minutes
- Keeping your dog is not damp, cool Wetter
- Provide your dog with a solid orthopedic bed.
