Our dogs love to run and play around, especially when they're breeds with high energy levels. These breeds are generally larger than most dogs, which means they'll have problems that the smaller dogs won't typically have.
One of these is hip dysplasia. In essence, it's a problem that involves the misalignment of the ball and socket of the hip joint as the dog grows.
In a healthy and normal hip, the ball of the hip joint fits well into the socket. In canine hip dysplasia, the fit is not perfect, which can be loose or poorly formed. As a result, the bones grind against each other.
This constant friction causes significant wear and tear, eventually leading to pain, inflammation, and mobility problems. In serious cases, it can also lead to other orthopedic issues, such as canine arthritis.
With that said, let’s learn more about dogs and hip dysplasia, including what it’s all about.
What Causes Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?
Now that we have discussed what hip dysplasia in dogs is, let’s discover the main causes of this orthopedic problem.
Genetics
The main cause of hip dysplasia in dogs is genetics. This means that dogs can inherit this condition from one or both of their parents. Since hip dysplasia is caused and influenced by several genes, the cause can be difficult to narrow down.
Some dog breeds are more prone to this condition, which are mostly large to giant ones. This includes:
Labrador Retriever
Rottweiler
Mastiff
While large breeds are the ones more commonly affected, hip dysplasia in small dogs such as Pugs and French Bulldogs is also possible. This is due to their unique skeletal structures.
Poor Nutrition and Rapid Growth
Puppies that grow too quickly are at a higher risk of this orthopedic problem. Rapid growth can sometimes result in unequal growth of bones and joints. This causes the ball and socket of the hip joint to not fit properly together.
This leads to instability and mobility issues. Hip dysplasia in dogs from rapid growth often stems from overfeeding and excessive calorie intake. This puts dogs at risk of abnormal bone and joint development.
Excessive or Improper Exercise
While exercise is important for a puppy’s overall health, too much can be counterproductive. As a result, the joints will experience strain and stress, possibly causing a misalignment. This is especially common for young and old dogs alike.
They can also increase the risk of malformation in breeds predisposed to hip dysplasia. These high-impact activities include:
Jumping on and off furniture
Running on hard surfaces
Excessively climbing stairs
Exercising for more than the recommended amount
High-intensity training without rest
Obesity
A dog’s weight is also a significant factor that increases the risk of canine hip dysplasia. The heavier the dogs get, the more strain the joints experience. As this goes on, the joints can deteriorate, becoming weaker and increasing the risk of other hip problems in dogs.
How Can You Tell if Your Dog Has Hip Dysplasia?
Some dogs may start showing signs as early as puppyhood, while others may not develop noticeable symptoms until later. Here are the common symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs:
Decreased activity. Your dog may become less enthusiastic about exercise and prefer resting over playing or going for walks.
Difficulty getting up. Movements that require strong hind-leg support become difficult due to hip problems in dogs.
Limping or lameness in the hind legs. Your dog may favor one leg over the other or seem stiff after resting.
Bunny hopping gait. Dogs with hip dysplasia develop a "bunny hopping" gait. This is shown when they use both back legs together when moving.
Wobbly or swaying walk. Your dog's hindquarters can appear wobbly, shaky, and unstable as the hip joint deteriorates.
Loss of muscle in the hind legs. As hip dysplasia progresses, dogs use their hind legs less, leading to muscle shrinkage.
Enlarged shoulder muscles. To compensate for hind leg weakness, dogs with hip dysplasia shift their weight forward, causing the front leg muscles to develop more than normal.
Pain or sensitivity around the hips. Your dog may flinch, whimper, or avoid being touched near the hip area.
Early Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
The earliest signs of hip problems in dogs can often be seen in their energy levels. If they seem to be less energetic or have difficulty during exercise, then it’s a giveaway. Anything that shows they have difficulty moving is basically a sign.
Since this condition is a progressive type, you may not notice the signs immediately during a dog’s early years. Hip dysplasia in older dogs is much more common.
How Do Vets Diagnose Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?
If you suspect that your dog may have hip dysplasia, a vet exam is essential. Since the signs can resemble other joint diseases, our vets will use a combination of physical exams and diagnostic tests.
We will begin by observing your dog’s movements and checking for signs of discomfort. Our vets will assess your dog's mobility, like how they run, walk, sit, or get up. We'll look into your dog's joint laxity, range of motion, and muscle mass.
Increased joint laxity and reduced range of motion will be key indicators of hip dysplasia.
X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs are the most reliable ways of diagnosing hip dysplasia in dogs. They provide a clear image of the hip joint structure. From here, we can detect hip joint misalignment, wear and tear, and joint damage.
X-rays are most commonly used to evaluate the shape and alignment of the hip joint. One specific X-ray technique used is the PennHIP method. Here, our vets will score the hips and assess the degree of laxity and potential for arthritis.
How Is Dysplasia Treated in Dogs?
For treatment, some dogs can be managed with non-surgical treatments, while others may require surgery for long-term relief and management.
Non-Surgical Treatments and Home Remedies
Non-surgical treatments can manage other dogs' conditions, while others may require surgery for long-term relief and management.
Weight Management. Managing your dog’s weight is one of the most effective ways to reduce the stress on their joints. Use a vet-recommended diet that is low in calories but high in protein. If you need help, feel free to ask our pet nutritionists.
Gentle Exercise. Low-impact activities help strengthen muscles and reduce stiffness. The best exercises you can do for your dog include swimming and short walks.
Physical Therapy. Phyiotherapy services aim to improve your dog’s mobility and reduce the pain they feel. It also helps them have more stability and joint function. Hydrotherapy is a popular option as it does not exert strain on the joints.
Pain Relief and Joint Supplements. We may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to help with pain and stiffness. Joint supplements can also support joint health and slow down the progression of arthritis.
Comfort and Lifestyle Adjustments. Using orthopedic beds, ramps, and raised food bowls can make your dog more comfortable.
Surgical Treatments
If this problem causes constant pain or limits movement, orthopedic surgery may be the best option. The type of hip dysplasia surgery for dogs depends on their age, size, and the severity of hip damage. These are the most common options:
Triple or Double Pelvic Osteotomy. This procedure is mostly recommended for young dogs before arthritis develops. Parts of the pelvis are repositioned to improve joint stability.
Femoral Head Ostectomy. In this surgery, the ball of your dog’s hip joint is removed, and the joint is allowed to heal. This is usually done for smaller dog breeds.
Total Hip Replacement. This procedure is regarded as the most effective for dogs suffering from both hip dysplasia and arthritis. In this type of surgery, your dog’s hip joint will be replaced to help improve its mobility.
Can Dog Hip Dysplasia Be Fixed Without Surgery?
Canine hip dysplasia cannot be fixed without surgery, as the non-surgical treatment methods only help your dog manage the pain. To significantly improve a dog’s condition, especially in severe cases, surgery will be needed.
How Long Can a Dog Live With Hip Dysplasia?
Dogs with hip dysplasia can live full, healthy lives. The condition is not fatal, only causing discomfort and mobility problems as a whole. With management, surgery, and support, affected dogs can have an improved quality of life and return to normal physical activity.
However, the recovery process may take time as dogs adjust and regain strength in their bodies.
What Is the Best Dog Food for Hip Dysplasia?
Food helps dogs recover and regain strength. Diets with joint supplements, healthy fats, calcium, and phosphorus are good options to start with. The easiest way to provide the nutrients your dog needs.
If you prefer more natural options, try out salmon, bone broth, spinach, and kale. These foods contain healthy fats, protein, collagen, and minerals to support joint health.
Can Hip Dysplasia in Dogs Be Prevented?
While it’s not possible to completely prevent hip dysplasia in dogs, there are steps you can take to drastically reduce the risk.
Large and giant dogs must eat food formulated for their size, starting from puppyhood. This should have the right balance of protein, fats, and minerals to support bone development. The food you give must also be in the right amount to avoid weight issues.
Regular exercise must also be done, but avoid activities that are too strenuous on the dog’s joints. Lighter, controlled exercises for several intervals are much better than an all-out, heavy exercise.
Consult a pet trainer and get regular checkups to get started.
“A dog’s love is unconditional. Let’s return the favor by giving them the care, comfort, and mobility they deserve.”
- Dr. Sarabjit Singh
Final Thoughts on Canine Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia gets in the way of our dogs' playtime, so it's our duty to help them recover. While it can't be completely prevented, we can help manage the condition. Consistent checkups, a good diet, and some simple home changes can make it a whole lot better.
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