Hip dysplasia among dogs is a degenerative condition of the joints where a certain looseness occurs in the what should have been snugly fitted joint bones. Genetics and environmental factors all contribute to the development of hip dysplasia. Popular dog breeds prone to hip dysplasia are Great Danes, Labradors, Saint Bernard's, and German Shepherds. Environmental factors and activities during childhood exacerbate the genetic tendency of puppies to develop hip dysplasia and consequently, osteoarthritis.
Nutritionally, it has been proven the dogs that are fed with high protein, high calorie free choice diet become obese and overweight compared to dogs fed with controlled diet. Obesity is a major risk factor in developing hip dysplasia, as the extra weight borne on the hip joints exacerbates your dog's condition. Some activities, like constant jumping and running around after thrown objects are activities that tax the muscles and the joints, leading the way for the development of these condition. As exercise is also needed for your pet's health, try moderate ones like walking and swimming.
When you notice your dog exhibiting less mobility, or have difficulty climbing stairs, your pet might be experiencing the pain brought on by hip dysplasia. Try to discern your pet's posture, as those with dysplasia often have slightly underdeveloped rear quarters and lack of muscles around the pelvis. Bring your pet to the veterinarian to have their hips x-rayed, to confirm their condition. Once diagnosed, there are several treatment options for hip dysplasia, along with several lifestyle modifications.
The first issue to address would be your pet's weight. If you're pet is obese, you need to put him/her on some kind of weight loss regimen. Keep in mind that weight changes should be gradual, so as not to affect the well-being of your pet. Switch to a dog food brand that offers more nutrients and lessen your dogs' sugary treats. Institute some kind of moderate exercise for your pet, depending on the severity and extent of his hip dysplasia. Keep in mind that short, low-impact exercise done daily is more beneficial than intermittent, heavy exercise that would potentially do more harm than good.
Keep your pet warm and comfortable all the time, as cold weather tend to make the pain more pronounced. Provide your pet with good sleeping area, with soft materials to sleep on. Orthopedic foams are available in the market, though large towels would also do. It would also help for you to apply warm compress to your dog's affected joints, especially before and after activities. Provide ramps and elevated feeders to ease pain when your pet has to go up and down the stairs or the car, and doesn't have to stoop to eat.
The veterinarian may also recommend several medications for relieve the pain associated with hip dysplasia. There are also several nutritional and diet supplements that are found to relieve the symptoms of hip dysplasia, and osteoarthritis in general. Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine supplements have formulations specifically designed for pets, and works in halting the damage on cartilage, the substance that serves as cushion between bone ends in joints. The one I use is Synflex Liquid Glucosamine for Pets. Syn-flex is easy to give, my dog takes it readily, and her improvement has been amazing. Synflex is very safe and its effectiveness has been obvious.
When the veterinarian deems it suitable, surgical procedures are also performed, with the goals of either suppressing further damage in recently developed hip dysplasia, or bringing back mobility to a dog that is going lame. Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis and Triple Pelvic Osteotomy are done on puppies 10 months or less in age. Total Hip Replacement can also be done, where the affected joint is removed and replaced with prosthesis.
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