Your Questions on Canine Hip Dysplasia Answered

February 26th, 2010

Canine Hip Dysplasia. Just the name sounds menacing. Taking in knowledge is the first step towards helping your dog. If you have questions that need answers, this is a good place to begin.

What is Canine Hip Dysplasia?

Canine Hip Dysplasia is a degenerative joint disease. It begins with the hip joints being too loose and damaging the cartilage. If left to progress, arthritis will ensue and eventually lead to a crippling effect on the dog. The disease can be long and incredibly painful.

Are certain breeds of dogs at a higher risk of developing canine hip dysplasia?

This disease can found in large, medium or small breeds. Larger breeds of dogs have been found to be at a higher risk. These would include Golden or Labrador Retrievers, Mastiffs, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Saint Bernards and Rottweilers. If your dog is a mixed breed, he may also be at risk. This is not just a disease that affects pedigreed canines.

What symptoms or signs should I watch for? How do I know that my dog has canine hip dysplasia?

Symptoms can appear as early as the ages of five to eight months. Some dogs may not develop any symptoms until well into adulthood. Here is a list of the most common symptoms…

Exhibits stiffness or has difficulty rising in the morning or after being exercised
Has a preference to using the front legs only, while dragging the back legs behind them
Walks or runs with a “bunny-hopping” gait
Creates a “clicking” noise by the hips when moving
Refuses to exercise or climb stairs
Presents a decrease in range of movement or energy level

Whether you notice changes in your dog’s movements gradually, or all of the sudden, any of the above signs should give you cause to seek out a certified veterinarian as soon as possible. By taking x-rays and doing a thorough physical examination, a vet will be able to make a definitive diagnosis.

Is canine hip dysplasia hereditary or contagious? Are there any other risk factors?

Puppies born to parents who carry the genes for Hip Dysplasia are more likely to develop the disease. It should also be noted that even if the puppies appear healthy and never show any symptoms of the sickness, they carry the gene and may pass it along to any future generations. Dogs do not “catch” Dysplasia from other dogs. Although this condition is genetic, there are other factors that may contribute to the early development. An improper diet may cause a dog to gain too much weight, putting undo pressure on the joints. This, in turn, accelerates the deterioration, causing symptoms to appear more quickly. Over exercising a dog at any age may also exacerbate the situation.

How can I make my dog more comfortable after the diagnosis?

As with human forms of arthritis, your canine companion would appreciate a warmer climate. You can accommodate him by turning up the thermostat, or investing in a doggie sweater. Ensuring he uses a firm bed may also alleviate some of the pressure on his joints, enabling him to receive a more restful sleep. Feeding your dog a balanced raw diet would be of further benefit, helping him to maintain a proper weight. Some dog owners have found that physical therapy or message is advantageous. Your veterinarian would be able to recommend appropriate exercises.

What treatments are available?

Treatments vary, depending on severity of pain, and age of the dog. As we see with many prescription medications, there can be side effects, some severe. Many of the leading non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) require intermittent blood tests to ensure that the liver is not being damaged. Steroid injections have been controversial due to their side effects such as degrading the joints over time. Surgeries, including Total Hip Replacement, Triple Pelvic Osteotomy, and Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis are extremely costly but are sometimes recommended.

A dog can be our best friend, our “child”, our guide, our protector. Although the prognosis may seem overwhelming and bleak, your dog’s future doesn’t have to be. There are alternative medicines that are worth looking into. Look for all-natural solutions with no side effects to help reduce pain that will help to build your dog’s health over time.