Large dogs tend to have a tough time. Regardless of their size, they love to play, and it’s up to you to notice when they’re not developing correctly or having a tough time. Large dogs are still puppies in their hearts, and they want to believe they’ll stay that way forever.

Hip dysplasia in dogs is when the hip joint develops abnormally. A hereditary and developmental orthopedic condition, hip dysplasia is characterized by abnormal hip joint formation, leading to joint instability and osteoarthritis over time.

Loose joint and degenerative joint disease, excessive growth, nutrition, exercise, and several hereditary factors all affect hip dysplasia. Loose joints or “joint laxity” is a primary factor in hip dysplasia, which can lead to degenerative joint disease or “osteoarthritis” as the condition progresses.

While the signs of hip dysplasia in dogs may vary, you should notice the signs. Mild, moderate, or severe lameness, your dog walking with a gait, stiffness of their joints, and an unwillingness to fully extend their legs are all signs of hip dysplasia. To get to the root of the cause, your dog’s veterinarian might prescribe X-rays to determine the degree of the arthritis, and how to treat it.

What Are the Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?

Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) is a condition that begins in dogs as they grow and results in instability or a loose fit (laxity) of the hip joint, as defined by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS). Here are some common signs of hip dysplasia in dogs.

Lethargy

The most common symptom, lethargy, is associated with hip dysplasia in dogs since it hurts dogs to stand or move around much when they suffer from this condition. They become lethargic and may be less interested in going for walks or playing with their toys.

Lethargy can be a sign of many conditions in dogs, and its lack of specificity is typically a tell that you should take them in for a veterinary appointment. If lethargy is the sole symptom, your family veterinarian should be able to diagnose any underlying causes, whether it’s hip dysplasia or something else.

Difficulty Moving

Lethargy isn’t the only sign of hip dysplasia in dogs. Difficulty moving in general is an indicator, as your dog may struggle to get out of bed and might refuse to run, jump, or climb the stairs.

Your dog’s limited range of motion isn’t only a symptom of hip dysplasia, but of arthritis. It may be related to other illnesses such as Lyme disease, and more serious underlying health conditions. If you notice that your dog has difficulty moving or a general bodily stiffness, talk to your veterinarian as your dog might require a more thorough examination.

Hind End Lameness

A noticeable change in your dog’s gait or hind limb behavior indicates hip dysplasia. Hind end lameness causes the back end of your dog’s body to become much more rigid—their back legs may freeze up and become impossible to control.

Hind end lameness is usually forthcoming in the later stages of hid dysplasia, and if your dog is showing signs of lameness, they probably showed signs in the beginning stages as well. Hind end lameness is also be associated with other conditions such as spinal disorders, neurological issues, or other orthopedic problems.

Loss of Muscle in the Thigh

As hip dysplasia advances, dogs will try to avoid using their thigh muscles. They will run and jump less, leading to an atrophy of the thigh muscles. This will become visibly noticeable over time, especially if left untreated.

Loss of muscle isn’t typically associated with other conditions, and if you notice these symptoms you may have noticed some of the other signs on this list.

Pain and Stiffness

Hip dysplasia ultimately causes stiffness and pain in the joints. Even if your dog can move around and play, it might take them a while to loosen up or get out of bed. Your dog also might guard parts of their body, such as their hips and legs, as their pain increases. If he’s reluctant to let you touch him or shows signs of aggression around certain body parts, you should reach out to your veterinarian right away.

Which Dog Breeds Are Most Vulnerable to Canine Hip Dysplasia?

While many factors contribute to the development of hip dysplasia in dogs, including environmental, dietary, and genetic, some breeds are more susceptible. It may not surprise you to find out that most of the breeds on this list are very small or very large dogs whose physicality can majorly affect their development.

Dog breeds prone to hip dysplasia:

  • German Shepherds
  • Labrador Retrievers
  • Golden Retrievers
  • Rottweilers
  • Saint Bernards
  • Newfoundlands
  • French Bulldogs
  • Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
  • Pugs
  • Boxers

How Do You Treat Dog Hip Dysplasia?

Your veterinarian may recommend a combination of weight loss and a healthy diet to help your dog maintain their natural mobility. Dog hip dysplasia treatment allows them to live a less painful life, and your dog must receive an appropriate amount of exercise, have their hip joints massaged, and sleep in a warm and dry area regularly.

During your dog’s veterinary appointment, your healthcare professional will help you explore better exercise and feeding options to ease your pup’s pain. Joint supplements and other prescriptions may help, such as veterinary-prescribed pain-relieving medications.

Physical therapy is also an enormous help when paired with:

  • Joint supplements
  • Exercise
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines

With the proper care, canine hip dysplasia can be treated.

In some cases, your dog may require corrective surgery or a total hip replacement. Many veterinarians perform a juvenile pubic symphysiodesis at 10-18 weeks, which allows the pelvic joints to grow together properly. Surgery for hip dysplasia in dogs might sound scary, but it can be the most important step in your dog’s recovery.

How Long Can a Dog Live With Hip Dysplasia?

How Long Can a Dog Live With Hip Dysplasia?

Dogs with hip dysplasia can lead normal, healthy, happy lives with proper surgical and medical management. Any dog with hip dysplasia should visit their veterinarian every six months for a thorough physical examination to monitor their condition. Your veterinarian can adjust their treatment plan as needed, watch their progress, and ensure your pup is living its best life.

Preventing Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

As your dog’s owner, you can do your part to help manage your pup’s risk of developing canine hip dysplasia in the first place.

  • Your puppy should be screened for signs of arthritis and hip dysplasia.
  • Feed large-breed puppies large-breed puppy food until they are 12-18 months old.
  • Talk with your veterinarian about when to start joint supplements for your dog.
  • A regular wellness check-up for dogs.
  • Work with your vet to establish a healthy weight, diet, and exercise plan.

When To See Your Vet

When To See Your Vet

When is the best time to take your dog to the vet? The moment you notice any signs of discomfort, difficulty moving, or other symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs, it’s time for an appointment. By intervening early, your dog can receive the crucial bodily management they need and offset the development of disease or illness. Hip dysplasia in dogs is a serious condition that, when effectively managed, can still allow your dog to lead a happy and healthy life.

At Paoli Vetcare, we have spent decades caring for the dogs and puppies in our community. By offering thorough examinations and real treatments, Paoli Vetcare has established itself as the area’s premier veterinary clinic. We offer the expertise, experience, and comprehensive care the Main Line has come to expect. Please reach out today and contact Paoli Vetcare to schedule your dog’s examination! We promise to treat your beloved pup with the attention, grace, and love they deserve.

Dr. Erin Downes VMD

Dr. Erin Downes graduated valedictorian from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1992. She and her husband, Dr. Jay Rowan are the owners of Paoli Vetcare | Main Line Vet & Animal Hospital.