Dog hip dysplasia is an abnormal development of the hip socket in dogs, with prevalence in eight particular dog breeds. Dog hip dysplasia is a genetic trait common in canines that can result in pain, lameness or chronic arthritis. Changes in weather can trigger the problem to present dramatically. Whilst hip dysplasia can be found in many dog breeds it is usually present in the larger breeds.
The Differences In A Normal Dog’s Hips And Dog Hip Dysplasia?
Dog hip dysplasia alters the structure of the hip bones and how they fit together. It causes the the hip bone, femur and pelvis to be misaligned and loose. So, instead of a smooth and elegant movement being performed, the joint moves erratically causing significant friction and cartilage wear. The muscles and surrounding tendons and ligaments also suffer from having to adapt to abnormal ranges of movement in the joint. The normally smooth and rounded areas of the bones become misshapen causing restriction of free movement. These issues cause changes in your dog’s body in two ways:
- Your dogs system is constantly trying to repair the damage from the friction by replacing the torn and damaged cartilage.
- Constant swelling from the increase of fluids and blood to the area.
Dog hip dysplasia will, over time, degenerate to the point that your pet may no longer be able to correctly support its own weight and crippling occurs. This cycle is marked by chronic pain and a change in your dogs temperament.. It is also possible for your dog to develop arthritis from the constant swelling in the area.
Any breed of dog can develop dog hip dysplasia. However, there are certain breeds that, statistically, are more likely to develop it. The top five breeds are:
- Bulldogs
- Dogue De Bordeaux
- Otter hounds
- Boerbole
- Pugs
Larger breeds of dogs such as Great Danes and Labradors are very susceptible to dog hip dysplasia, as well overwieght dogs.
How is Dog Hip Dysplasia Treated?
Unfortunately, because hip dysplasia in dogs tend to be an hereditary condition, there is no treatment to prevent its development. There are several types of treatment for the condition once it occurs in your dog. In extreme cases, there are several surgical remedies, including a prosthetic hip replacement.
Some things you can do to manage your dogs hip dysplasia are:
- Maintain your dog’s diet and keep it healthy
- Regulate his/her weight and assure it remains in a normal range for their breed
- Give your dog regular exercise and an active daily schedule
- A warm, dry sleeping area to reduce flame ups
- Massage the conditioned area
- Research quality joint supplements
- A prescription for an anti inflammatory for dogs and pain medication can assist with keeping your pet comfortable and manage any pain caused by the condition.
For those of you who are not happy with administering drugs there are many herbal supplements available. Fish oil and Glucosamine can help with tissue repair after the inflammation is brought under control.
