Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: Signs,
Hip dysplasia are two words that terrify large- and giant-breed dog owners, but the truth is that canine hip dysplasia can happen to any size or breed of dog. This painful condition can drastically reduce a dog’s quality of life and is difficult for owners to watch. The good news is that embracing responsible dog ownership and educating yourself about potential health conditions like hip dysplasia can go a long way toward keeping your dog comfortable. Learn what all owners should know about hip dysplasia in dogs, including the symptoms, treatment options, and preventative measures you can take to keep your dog healthy, happy, and active. What Is Canine Hip Dysplasia? Hip dysplasia is a common skeletal condition, often seen in large or giant breed dogs, although it can occur in smaller breeds, as well. To understand how the condition works, owners first must understand the basic anatomy of the hip joint. The hip joint functions as a ball and socket. In dogs with hip dysplasia, the ball and socket do not fit or develop properly. Therefore, they rub and grind instead of sliding smoothly. This results in deterioration over time and an eventual loss of function of the joint itself. Symptoms, Treatment By AKC Staff Updated: Mar 26, 2024
each day to keep them in good physical condition.
What Causes Hip Dysplasia in Dogs? Several factors lead to the development of hip dysplasia in dogs, beginning with genetics. Hip dysplasia is hereditary and is especially common in larger dogs, like the Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Labrador Retriever, and German Shepherd Dog. Factors such as excessive growth rate, types of exercise, improper weight, and unbalanced nutrition can magnify this genetic predisposition. Some puppies have special nutrition requirements and need food specially formulated for large-breed puppies. These foods help prevent excessive growth, which can lead to skeletal disorders such as hip dysplasia, along with elbow dysplasia and other joint conditions. Slowing down these breeds’ growth allows their joints to develop without putting too much strain on them, helping to prevent problems down the line. Improper nutrition can also influence a dog’s likelihood of developing hip dysplasia, as can giving a dog too much or too little exercise. Obesity puts a lot of stress on your dog’s joints, which can exacerbate a pre-existing condition such as hip dysplasia or even cause hip dysplasia. Talk to your vet about the best diet for your dog and the appropriate amount of exercise your dog needs
Glucosamine for Dogs With Joint Disease Large breed dog foods often contain joint supplements like glucosamine. If your veterinarian diagnoses your dog with arthritis, glucosamine will likely be part of a comprehensive treatment plan. They will most likely recommend a chewable supplement with a veterinarian-grade dose of glucosamine and chondroitin. You can also purchase supplements with these ingredients for dogs that might be prone to developing arthritis and hip dysplasia down the line. Joint supplements are often used as an early intervention and throughout the progression of arthritis, as they are safe for long-term use in most patients. While research is still limited, these supplements may help reduce symptoms of hip dysplasia. Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs Some dogs begin to show signs of hip dysplasia when they are as young as four months of age. Others develop it in conjunction with osteoarthritis as they age. In both cases, there are a few symptoms that owners should be familiar with. These symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the disease, the level of inflammation, the degree of
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