Hip dysplasia starts when a dog is young. The condition means that the bones in the hip joint don’t fit quite right and might be misshapen, leading to abnormal movement and wear and tear on the joint.
Young puppies may run with an odd gait, with both hind legs running together. Some run with a “bunny hop.” Others may limp.
As the dog ages, he has likely been learning to live with chronic pain and discomfort, so observing for signs of pain may be difficult as signs might be subtle or the same as the dog has been showing over the course of several years. Some indications of increasing discomfort maybe the reluctance to move, suddenly sitting down while out on a walk, refusal to climb onto furniture or up steps, or the inability to get up to his favorite spot on the couch. He is probably stiff in the morning and has a hard time getting up. As he gets older, his hind end loses more muscle tone, and he is less able to move comfortably.
Though some breeds are more prone to hip dysplasia, like German Shepherds, Great Danes, Golden Retrievers, etc., even smaller dogs and cats can have the condition.
Treatment
There is no cure for hip dysplasia; however, you can keep your dog more comfortable by having your veterinarian evaluate him for medication such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Surgery might be an option. Other options may include supplements with glucosamine.
Prevention
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can be passed on through generations. So, breeding dogs with hip dysplasia would not be wise. Overfed giant breed puppies tend to be more prone to the condition. So keeping a puppy’s weight more healthy on the lean side may keep the strain off his growing muscles and bones and reduce his risk for developing hip dysplasia.
If your dog or cat is showing signs of odd gait movements in his hind end, regardless of age, have your veterinarian evaluate him. And if he’s older, don’t just assume he’s having a hard time getting up just because he’s aged. Many owners are surprised at how much more spry and happy their dogs become after being given medication to relieve the pain of hip dysplasia.
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