Canine hip dysplasia is a condition described as the dislocation of the hip joint, when the joint bone doesn’t fit perfectly into the joint socket. The condition can cause pain and the dog may not be able to perform certain movements. The causes of canine hip dysplasia may vary from hereditary causes to injuries or obesity.
Causes Canine of Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia in dogs is typically seen in dogs over the age of 2, but younger dogs may also be affected by this condition. Certain dog breeds (larger breeds) are also more likely to have canine hip dysplasia.
A dog with hip dysplasia will have swollen joints, which is due to the fact that the femur doesn’t fit into its socket perfectly. Pain may also be common in dogs with this condition and this will make the dog limp and have lame limbs.
The causes of canine hip dysplasia may include:
- Hereditary causes and breed
- Abnormal development of bones during growth, which may be caused by giving the pet joint supplements that will affect the growth of the bones
- Neutering the dog before he reaches maturity, as this will affect his growth
- Injuries to the hip bones
- Obesity, as the dog’s weight may press on the joints leading to its displacement
Preventing Canine Hip Dysplasia
Knowing the causes of hip dysplasia in dogs is important in preventing this condition. However, in some cases, the problem cannot be prevented.
Avoid giving your dog joint supplements that are not recommended by your vet or giving him a higher dose that recommended.
You should also avoid neutering your dog before he is fully developed. Talk to your vet to establish if your dog is mature. If you have a female dog, you can spay her after her first heat cycle, which indicates that she is mature and her bones are fully developed.
Make sure your dog gets quality food and eats no more than he needs for his daily activities. Your dog should exercise daily, so that he won’t get overweight.
Given the fact that canine hip dysplasia may be hereditary, the condition may be prevented by not breeding dogs that are affected by this condition.
A dog with hip dysplasia should be neutered as early as possible, but not before the dog has finished growing.
Hip Dysplasia Treatment
If your pet is affected by hip dysplasia, you will need to offer him support and treatment, so that his mobility will improve.
In some cases, surgery will be recommended, as this is the only solution that will fix your dog.
However, if surgery is not an option or you cannot afford surgery, you may opt for several supplements and pain medication. Steroids can also improve your pet’s condition, reducing the inflammation and controlling pain.
If your pet is overweight, a strict diet will be recommended.
You may also modify the interior of your home, so that certain areas are easily accessible for your pet. Remove stairs or place some ramps.