Feeding, training, and regular visits to the veterinarian will help your dog live a healthy and happy life. Unfortunately, some dog breeds are prone to conditions that affect their comfort and ability to move. Hip dysplasia can affect all types of dogs, but some breeds, such as German shepherds, are predisposed to the condition. Using this guide, you will learn a few fast facts regarding this painful condition in dogs.
It Starts Early
In healthy dogs, the ball and socket of the hip joint fit together that two pieces of a puzzle. In dogs with hip dysplasia, the ball and socket grow abnormally, preventing the hip joint from moving in a smooth and natural manner.
The abnormal growth of the hip ball and socket occurs early. Puppies as young as 5 months of age may have hip dysplasia. As a matter of fact, puppies born to parents with hip dysplasia are twice as likely to have the condition.
Symptoms Vary
Each dog is different, so your dog may experience different symptoms from another with hip dysplasia. However, the main symptom of the disorder is lack of mobility.
This issue with the hip joint will prevent your dog from running, jumping, or being active in any way. Your dog may stop jumping on furniture or climbing up stairs. They may also become hesitant when making different motions.
Of course, this lack of mobility will not be as noticeable when your dog is young, but it will worsen with age.
Here are a few other symptoms of hip dysplasia:
Surgery May Be Necessary
Not every dog with hip dysplasia is a candidate for surgery. Older dogs may not benefit from these surgeries because they are so invasive.
A total hip replacement is the most common surgery for dogs with dysplasia. During this procedure, the entire hip joint is replaced with prosthetics made of metal and plastic. This replacement allows your dog's hip joint to fit together, moving in an easy, pain-free manner.
Your veterinarian will help you determine whether your dog is suited for surgery.
Holistic Treatment Is Possible
If your dog is not a good candidate for surgery, talk to your vet about holistic treatments.
Reducing your dog's weight is one of the easiest ways to help dogs with hip dysplasia. By reducing your dog's weight, less pressure and stress will be on the hip joint. This will help them move easier and with less pain.
To learn more about hip dysplasia, talk to a vet office like Healthy Paws Veterinary Hospital & Housecalls. With proper understanding and an early diagnosis, you can improve your dog's health and wellness.
Share19 October 2017
Having your pets spayed and neutered is more important than most people realize. Not only does it help manage the pet population, but it can help your pet's behavior and protect them from unwanted and unsafe pregnancies. Our blog is all about spaying and neutering pets. You will learn about the procedure, the benefits and even the potential risks of having it done. Hopefully, the information that we have included here will help you come to an educated decision about whether your pet should be spayed or neutered. Take your time to read through everything compiled here and you should have little question about the procedure.
