Hip dysplasia, a condition where one or both of a dog’s hips have developed abnormally, causes pain or discomfort when the dog moves or exercises. Learn more about hip dysplasia, its signs, and the procedures that can be used to treat it in dogs from our Plains, Northeastern Pennsylvania, veterinary surgeons.
What is hip dysplasia in dogs?
The hip joint in dogs functions as a ball and socket, just like in humans, but when hip dysplasia occurs, the ball and socket stop working properly. Hip dysplasia makes the ball and socket grind and rub against each other rather than gliding along smoothly to enable comfortable movement, resulting in further hip deterioration and eventual loss of function.
Since it can be upsetting to see an otherwise healthy dog deal with the effects of hip dysplasia, this condition is very painful for dogs but can also be very difficult for pet parents to deal with.
What are signs that my dog might have hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia typically starts to manifest itself in puppies around the age of five months, but your dog may not exhibit symptoms until they are middle-aged or older. As your puppy matures, keep an eye out for any of the following indications of hip dysplasia:
Hip Dysplasia Risk #2: Dogs Who’re Members of a High-Risk Breed
While hip dysplasia can affect any dog, some breeds are more likely than others to be affected by the condition. Large and giant breeds, as well as smaller breeds with more extreme builds, frequently experience problems.
The following breeds are among those most prone to hip dysplasia:
Even though hip dysplasia is more prevalent in these breeds, not all dogs will develop the condition.
Additionally, mutts are susceptible to hip dysplasia. Simply keep an eye out for it, as you would with any other prevalent genetic condition. Of course, it might be worthwhile to look into your dog’s DNA to see if any of the breeds in his ancestry frequently experience the condition.
FAQ
Can a dog live a normal life with hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia should not shorten your dog’s life at all. Any dog with the condition should live a full and active life as long as it receives treatment and is well cared for at home. Problems only arise when a dog overeats or experiences discomfort that keeps them from exercising enough to maintain a healthy weight.
Can a dog recover from hip dysplasia without surgery?
Treating canine hip dysplasia without surgery is possible. By limiting their exercise routine, assisting them in maintaining a healthy weight to lessen strain on their joints, and making an investment in high-quality bedding, you can help your dog feel more comfortable while taking medication to reduce pain and inflammation.
How long can a dog live with hip dysplasia surgery?
How Long Can a Dog Live With Hip Dysplasia? A dog with hip dysplasia can live a normal, healthy life with the right surgical and medical management. To ensure joint health and encourage muscle strength and mobility, your dog should have a physical examination with your veterinarian every six months.
How effective is hip dysplasia surgery for dogs?
Considered the most successful procedure for treating hip dysplasia is total hip replacement. THR involves replacing your dog’s entire hip joint with plastic and metal implants, restoring hip function to a more normal range, and removing the majority of hip dysplasia-related discomfort.