Common Hip Problems In Dogs
There are a few common hip problems in dogs that every dog owner should be aware of. There are genetic hip problems in dogs such as hip dysplasia and there are degenerative arthritic disease and traumatic injury as well. All of these conditions can cause dog joint pain.
Dysplasia Hip Problems In Dogs
Dysplasia for the most part is a genetic trait passed on through each generation. Larger breeds of dog tend to be more prone to this condition. If you are in the market looking for a puppy and you are dealing directly with a breeder, then one of the first things you need to confirm is that the parents and grand parents of your new pet are certified as free of this condition.
If they are not certified as having normal hip conformation (structure) then there is a very high likelihood of your dog developing this hip problem and being affected. Symptoms of hip dysplasia are an ungainly walk and hyper mobility of the hips when manipulated through a range of movements.
The dog may sit in a strange way which is called “frog legged sitting”. There may be a distinct clicking sound heard when the joints are moved.
Xrays and MRIs are testing protocols used to arrive at a firm diagnosis, along with several rigorous physical examinations. The following brief video shows a rottweiler that has hip dysplasia. Notice the bunny hopping.
Other Hip Problems In Dogs
Arthritis, whether degenerative, immune mediated or infectious is one of the most common causes of hip problems seen in dogs. The symptoms of arthritis as opposed to dysplasia are as follows:
- Lameness/limping
- Stiffness on sitting or rising
- Inability or reluctance to climb stairs or jump
- Pain and yelping if the hips are manipulated
- Loss of flexibility in joints
- Muscle atrophy (wasting)
Spinal injury can also affect the hips and lead to similar symptoms observed in a dog with arthritis. If there is a traumatic injury or spinal compression it can lead to muscle wasting in the hind legs. Ship problems in dogs.ome of the symptoms of a spinal condition are:
- Dragging of the feet
- Normal foot reflex absent
- Instability and swaying of the hind quarters
- Spontaneous dropping into a sitting position
The following video has a few examples of dogs with spinal conditions. Just a warning that some of the images may distress some viewers. My aim is not to shock – only to inform.There is no audio with this video.
Like any condition that may present itself, the faster you recognize that there is a problem and consult your vet, the better. Your dog may live a long life free of these conditions. Even so, being able to identify the various hip problems in dogs will allow you to address these issues, if any, as soon as they arise.
