Does your dog suffer from Hip Dysplasia?
Some people often just assume their dog is getting old when he starts to limp or when there is some stiffness evident. Often enough this is Hip Dysplasia and you should take action to help eliminate discomfort and pain as soon as possible. It is most common in large dogs but is also found in smaller breeds from time to time.
What is canine hip dysplasia?
The area affected is in and around the dog’s hips and it’s called Hip Dysplasia. In a nutshell, sometimes the hips are not shaped properly which can leave the dog prone to hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia in dogs can occur in puppies from as young as 5 months, but the ensuing arthritis in the hips generally doesn’t strike Spot until he is middle aged.
Dog breeds susceptible to hip dysplasia.
Some breeds of dogs are well known for being genetically susceptible to hip dysplasia. Mixed breed dogs can also suffer from hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices has seen a decline in hip dysplasia numbers, but these dogs still have a higher than average chance of having dysplasia:
* Rottweilers.
* Labs and retrievers.
* German shepherds.
* Great Danes.
* Mastiffs.
* Saint Bernards.
* Dobermans.
Hip arthritis can also be found in and medium sized dogs as well.
Signs of hip dysplasia include:
* early morning stiffness.
* behavioural changes and sometimes personality changes too.
* awkwardness or clumsy steps.
* unable to exercise as much as before.
* disinterest in fetching.
* problems getting up from lying down or sitting.
* limping, favoring one or both back legs, or stiff or unusual gait.
* opting to sleep away from others.
* pain when back leg is extended.
* discomfort or sensitivity when lower back or back legs are prodded.
* can’t or won’t jump into the car anymore.
Hip dysplasia treatments.
Dog arthritis can be treated in a myriad of ways including dog medicines, dog supplements and even aids to help make Rover happy again. One of the most popular options is glucosamine, which has been incredibly successful in aiding humans with osteoarthritis. Dog supplements containing glucosamine chondroitin have become one of the first treatment options. Don’t underestimate a good night’s sleep and other orthopedic aids as handy comfort providers such as special dog beds and ramps etc.
Weight Management.
The most prominent element to affect or enhance hip dysplasia is the dog’s weight. The more your dog weighs, the more strain is being placed on those hips. Keeping your dog in his healthy weight range could save him from immense pain and suffering down the track.
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About Labradors
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers have been the most popular of all dogs registered with the AKC for more than 15 years. Of course they are! Labs are easy going and versatile, devoted to their families and friendly toward people, other dogs, and other pets. They love hunting, swimming, and backyard games.
Weight: 55-80 lbs
Height: 21-25”
Color: solid black, yellow, or chocolate
Coat: short coarse outer coat with straight or slightly wavy hair
thick undercoat to provide waterproofing
Grooming: weekly
Longevity: 10-12 years
Especially good at:
# Great family dogs & easily trusted with children
# Happily accept other pets and other people
# Keep their human guardians fit and active because they need routine exercise
# Tolerate cold well and are reasonably tolerant of heat
# Good at lifting spirits with their constantly wagging tails
# Are happiest and healthiest when living with exercise fanatics
Watch out for:
# Lumps or growths that may indicate cancer
# Over feeding
# Feet chewing or ear infections that develop subsequent to allergies
# Obesity, sluggishness and dull coat due to hypothyroidism
# Arthritis of the hips, knees, and elbows
# Excessive chewing due to boredom
# Tail wagging that can tumble a toddler over
Appearance
Labradors are robust, active dogs able to run and hunt for hours. They have a shiny, coarse coat, brown or hazel eyes, a kind, intelligent expression, and triangular ears that hang down and frame the face. The abdomen tucks up only slightly so the trunk is rather rectangular. There is a small but discernable narrowing over the flanks. The tail is strong and has a wide base. This is called an “otter tail.”
Behavior
Naturally active and exuberant, Labs love to be busy and especially love something to chew when they’re resting. Labs are among the easiest to train of all breeds because they are intelligent and are focused on what their human companions want. Because Labs retain their puppy natures until they are nearly 3 years old, some pet guardians lose patience and are tempted to get rough with them or to use shock collars. To elicit the desired behavior from these rambunctious pets, use gentleness and consistency. Keep Labs well exercised and they develop commendable behavior. Suspect painful arthritis or another health problem if a Labrador Retriever begins to bite or becomes irritable.
Health
Bone and joint diseases (such as arthritis and hip dysplasia)
Providing a natural, holistic diet helps prevent and manage bone and joint problems. Over 10% of Labrador Retrievers has hip dysplasia, but the breeders have been working hard to bring the percentage down.
Allergies that predispose them to ear infections
Providing a natural, holistic diet and vaccinating only when necessary and for the fewest diseases helps prevent and manage immune problems, such as allergies
Hypothyroidism
Low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism) is easily treated with prescription medication, and many veterinarians believe the likelihood of hypothyroidism is reduced markedly if Labrador Retrievers are not over vaccinated.
Obesity
Obesity is controlled with diet and exercise. The natural fat layer that protects Labrador Retrievers from hypothermia when swimming should not be allowed to become a thick layer of padding.
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