Labrador Hip Dysplasia Info

Hip Dysplasia is a widespread condition that primarily affects large  breeds of dogs. There is a strong genetic link between parents that have hip dysplasia and the incidence in their offspring.

Most dysplastic Labradors are born with normal hips but due to    genetic and possibly other factors, the soft tissues that surround the joint start to develop abnormally as the puppy grows.

Labradors of all ages are subject to the symptoms of hip dysplasia and the resultant osteoarthritis. In severe cases, puppies as young as five months will begin to show pain and discomfort during and after vigorous exercise. The condition will worsen until even normal daily activities are painful. Without intervention, these dogs may be unable to walk at all by a couple years of age. In most cases, however, the symptoms do not begin to show until the middle or later years in the dog’s life. Osteoarthritis is the result of degeneration of the joint due to hip dysplasia. Surgical and medical treatments such as Pet Bounce or Arthix are targeted to prevent and treat the resulting osteoarthritis. Canine Hip Dysplasia SymptomsA dysplastic Labrador will show discomfort and pain while running and walking. Some Labradors will limp and many will decrease their level of activity. As the condition progresses, the Labradors will lose muscle tone and may even need assistance in getting up. It is primarily a disease of purebreds although it can happen in mixed breeds, particularly if it is a cross of two dogs that are prone to developing the disease. German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Great Danes, Golden Retrievers, and Saint Bernards appear to have a higher incidence.Dog Hip Dysplasia –  Nutrition

Carrying around extra weight will exacerbate degeneration of the joint in a dog with a loose hip. Overweight labs are therefore at a much higher risk. Weight management is the first thing that must be addressed. All surgical and medical procedures will be more beneficial if the animal is not overweight. You, as the owner, have control over what your Labrador eats. If you feed an appropriate food at an appropriate level and keep treats to a minimum, your lab will lose weight. There are a few recommended supplements that could help prevent and ease the hip dysplasia sympthoms.Exercise For Dogs With Hip DysplasiaWe know that dogs with large and prominent leg muscle mass are less likely to contract the disease than dogs with small muscle mass. So exercising and maintaining good muscle mass may actually decrease the incidence of the disease. Exercise that provides for good range of motion and muscle building and limits wear and tear on the joints is the best.Learn more about exercise for Labradors with hip dysplasia.Surgical treatment For Canine Hip DysplasiaThere are several surgical procedures available depending on the age and the severity of the joint degeneration. Total Hip Replacement: may be the best surgical option for dogs that have degenerative joint disease as a result of chronic hip dysplasia.Before you make a decision read about the surgical proceedures for canine hip dysplasia

Warmth and good sleeping areas Are Important For Labradors with Hip Dysplasia

Most people with arthritis find that the signs tend to worsen in cold, damp weather. Keeping your pet warm, may help him be more comfortable. A pet sweater will help keep joints warmer. Providing a firm, orthopedic foam bed helps many dogs with arthritis. Beds with dome-shaped, orthopedic foam distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on joints. They are also much easier for the pet to get out of. Place the bed in a warm spot away from drafts.

Medical Treatment for Canine Hip Dysplasia

Medical treatment of hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis has greatly improved in the last several years thanks to the introduction and approval of several new supplements and drugs. Through proper diet, exercise, supplements, anti-inflammatories, and pain relief, you may be able to decrease the progression of degenerative joint disease. Because of the high cost involved with many surgeries, medical management is many times the only realistic option for many pet owners.

Agents such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin proved overwhelming success in treating patients with osteoarthritis, these products have come to the forefront of therapy and are becoming the most popular products for managing arthritis today. Glucosamine and chondroitin give the cartilage-forming cells (chondrocytes) the building blocks they need to synthesize new cartilage and to repair the existing damaged cartilage. Some tetracyclines such as doxycycline and minocycline have been shown to inhibit enzymes that break down cartilage. Natural supplements such as Vitamin C, Creatine, Omega-3 Fatty Acids and others are important in improving dogs well being too. The most effective treatment known to date for dog hip dysplasia is Duralactin that I have personnaly used for my beloved Max (a 10 year old Lab), with overwhelming results.

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