Canine hip dysplasia is closely related to arthritis and commonly effects dogs through their genetics. Hip dysplasia is often hard to prevent and treat since it is passed on to the dog genetically. Larger dog breeds, such as German shepherds, are most often commonly diagnosed with having this condition. During later stages of hip dysplasia, many dogs experience debilitating arthritis. The arthritis is caused by a disease that effects the joints and damages the cartilage in these areas. Hip dysplasia is not the same as hip arthritis, however, it causes it. In this condition, the hip and ball joint do not fit together well and may cause the dog painful symptoms.
Many younger puppies may show signs of having hip dysplasia. For these dogs, surgical procedures can be done to realign the hip joints. Most canines will not show symptoms until they are completely severe and are literally crippling to the dog. When this stage hits, the options for treatment are limited. Because canine hip dysplasia is passed on genetically, it is vitally important to do your research on breeders before adopting a puppy. This condition can not only be painful to the dog, but will also cause emotional pain for the dog's owner.
As stated before, this condition is most often found in larger breeds, however, it can also be found in some of the smaller ones as well. One such smaller dog breed is the cocker spaniel. Some mixed breeds may also be effected by hip dysplasia. Allowing your dog to have regular vet checkups will help you keep your dog's health in check and to identify any abnormal changes in personality and disposition.
Some of the most common signs that your dog has hip dysplasia are limping, difficulty raising their leg, inability to use stairs, less energy, lethargy, and whimpering after exercise. If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, be sure to take him or her to the vet for a checkup. Your vet will be able to diagnose hip dysplasia after a physical examination of the dog and x-rays. Different forms of x-rays will be able to diagnose the condition better and will help to see how severe the cartilage damage is.
Many veterinarians will recommend a total hip replacement if your dog is suffering from this condition. This treatment option often takes care of hip dysplasia completely and is the most commonly used treatment method. Another treatment option would be physical therapy and exercise. These methods are most often used in cases where the hip dysplasia is not severe. Many people may also choose this treatment option if price is a problem, since surgical procedures will be thousands of dollars. If you are aware that your dog has come from a breeder that has dogs with canine hip dysplasia, you may want to get your dog checked regularly by a veterinarian.