Hip dysplasia is a common condition that affects many dog breeds, especially larger ones. It usually appears when the dog reaches adulthood, but can be detected in puppies as young as four months old. It is an inherited condition that causes instability in the hip joint of dogs. It occurs when the ball and socket joint of the hip does not fit together properly, which causes abnormal movement and leads to deterioration over time. This can cause pain and discomfort for your dog, so it's important to know how to recognize the signs of hip dysplasia and how to treat it if your pet is affected by it.
Signs and Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia
Some common signs of hip dysplasia include limping, reluctance to move or jump, difficulty rising from a resting position, difficulty climbing stairs or jumping into cars or onto furniture, and decreased activity level. These symptoms may be more noticeable after your dog has been exercising or playing hard. If you notice any of these signs in your pet, contact your vet right away for further examination.
Treating Hip Dysplasia
The most effective way to treat hip dysplasia is through surgery, but there are also other options available depending on how severe the condition is. Non-surgical treatments such as weight management (for overweight dogs), physical therapy exercises and anti-inflammatory medications are all viable options for treating hip dysplasia in dogs. Your vet will be able to advise you on the best course of action for treating your pup's condition based on their age, breed and severity of their symptoms.
Hip dysplasia is common larger dogs, but can appear in any size breed. While it can be painful, it can be treated. The most important things are to recognize the signs early and work in conjunction with your veterinarian to ensure that your pet gets the best treatment possible for a happy and healthy life.