Hip dysplasia is when the hip joint is formed abnormally. Hip dysplasia can extend to dislocation whilst at other times it is minor joint looseness. An X-ray will be able to determine if your dog has hip dysplasia and to what extent it has reached.
It has been proved that hip dysplasia is a genetic condition. So, if the parents of a dog had hip dysplasia (or just one parent), chances are higher that the pup will get it too. For this reason you should never breed from a dog that has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia. Although not always inherited, hip dysplasia can occur regardless of the genetic history.
If you are breeding dogs then it is imperative that the parents are given pre-breeding pelvic x-rays to rule out hip dysplasia. The last thing you want is to breed pups that end up with this terrible condition.
Vets believe there are several factors which can also contribute to hip dysplasia. These include nutrition, bedding and physical activity.
If a dog becomes overweight they are more likely to get hip dysplasia. Being overweight places more stress on the joints therefore bone problems of all sorts will be more common.
Excessive strenuous exercise can bring upon more severe dysplasia and arthritis in a dog which has the genetic make up to develop hip dysplasia. Things like running and jumping can increase the discomfort the dog may feel in future so it is vital that you are aware if your dog is has a hip dysplasia genotype.
Some experts have said that certain types of bedding or surfaces can affect the future lives of pups. Slippery surfaces can cause problems so avoid newspaper, wood floors or smooth surfaces. Use towels for better grip.
Signs that a dog may have hip dysplasia are not always easy to spot. Some dogs do not complain much about the pain or discomfort but you will notice him sitting much more than standing. HE may also have difficulty standing up from a sitting position and may run abnormally with the back legs not operating independently of each other. Unfortunately by the time these signs are showing there may be extensive changes in the joint, which is why early x-rays are vital.
The best way to detect hip dysplasia early is to have regular x-rays, particularly if you know your dog is going to be prone to the condition.
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