What is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a problem with the hip joint, with the head of the femur (the upper leg bone) not fitting snugly and smoothly into the socket in the pelvis (hip).

The head of the femur may fit too loosely (called laxity) in the socket and the head of the femur may be partially out of the socket. This eventually leads to arthritis of the joint.

In this image there is obvious hip dysplasia in the right hip. Click on the image to see a larger version, where the differences between the two hips are much clearer.

Find out

• What are the Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia?
• Which Dogs get Hip Dysplasia?
  • Dogs that are being considered for Breeding should be checked for Hip Dysplasia
  • When Buying A Puppy From a Breeder Ask to See the Parental Hip Scores
• What Affects the Progression of Canine Hip Dysplasia?
  • Overweight
  • Inappropriate exercise in young dogs
  • Nutrition
  • Moderate exercise is beneficial
• How is Hip Dysplasia Diagnosed?
  • How Hip Dysplasia is Evaluated in Young Dogs Prior to Breeding
• What are the Care and Treatment Options for Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?
  • Losing weight, if Overweight
  • Regular, Moderate Exercise
  • Massage & Physical Therapy
  • Ramps
  • Supportive Bedding & Warm, Dry Environment
  • Supplements and Medications
  • Surgery

What are the Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia?

One or more of the following symptoms can indicate hip dysplasia;

• Altered gait when walking and/or running
• Running with a bunny hopping gait
• Stiffness in one or both rear legs first thing in the morning, or lying or sitting for an extended period
• Stiffness in one or both rear legs after exercise
• Limping
• Difficulty, or unwillingness, to climb up stairs etc.

In the early stages of hip dysplasia, symptoms are usually only seen after a dog has not moved for an extended period, or has recently done a significant amount of exercise.

As hip dysplasia progresses the symptoms will become more persistent. A dog with severe hip dysplasia may need assistance getting up and have difficulty walking.

Next Page – Canine Hip Dysplasia – Which Dogs & Progression
 
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