What is hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a genetic congenitalcondition in which there is abnormal formation of the hip joint resulting in an unhealthy and unstable joint.  As the affected dog ages, the joints gradually degenerate becoming arthritic, sometimes severely. 

The hip is a ball and socket joint.  In hip dysplasia, the "ball" of the joint may not be round and/or the socket may be flattened.  This makes the joint unstable.  As a result,  the cartilage which covers the bone may become damaged and arthritis may develop.

What causes hip dysplasia?

The exact cause of hip dysplasia is unknown but it is believed to develop because the skeleton grows faster than the supporting muscles. The imbalanced growth rate is influenced by heredity and diet. Other unknown factors may influence the development and severity of hip dysplasia. 

What dogs are most susceptible?

Though this disease is most common in large breeds of dogs, it may occur in any breed.  Hip dysplasia is highly heritable - genes for hip dysplasia are passed from parents to offspring.   Puppies with parents who have hip dysplasia are at higher risk of developing the disease.

What are the signs of hip dysplasia?

The signs of hip dysplasia may show up in puppies or in older dogs.  Hindleg lameness, a swaying or staggering gait, "bunny-hopping" while running, discomfort on rising, reluctance to climb stairs or stand on the rear legs, and reluctance to run or jump are all signs of hip dysplasia. 

Not all dogs with hip dysplasia are affected to the same degree. The disease can be very mild and cause no signs at all, or it may be severe and result in crippling of the rear limbs. While the disease usually affects both hips, occasionally it only affects one side. 

Can I prevent my dog from getting hip dysplasia?

You can have some influence over dysplasia; You may not be able to prevent hip dysplasia, but the following may reduce the risk of its development or severity:

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) keeps a record of purebred dogs who have had their hips evaluated.  At a minimum, be sure the dam and sire of your puppy have normal hips as certified by the OFA.

Do not "push" your puppy to grow at a faster than normal rate.  Feeding a nutritionally balanced diet 2-3 times daily rather than free choice may help the bones and joints develop at an equal rate.  There are puppy foods specifically formulated for the special nutritional needs of large breeds. Also there are special Therapuetic Vitamin combinations that can be
given to prevent or reduce the severity of hip dysplasia.

How can the veterinarian tell if my dog has hip dysplasia?

The veterinarian will use information from:

• your description of the signs and symptoms your dog is showing
• manipulation of your dog's hips
• examination of radiographs (x-rays) of your dog's hips
•    to make the diagnosis of hip dysplasia.       Hip Dysplasia continued.................>>>>>>>>>>