Issue 4
Canine
Hip Dysplasia
What is hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is an abnormal development of
the hip joint, and causes looseness in the hip joint. This looseness
can progress to bony deformity and arthritis in the hip joint, resulting
in varying degrees of pain and lameness. It can be crippling when
severe.
What causes hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia has both genetic and environmental
causes. Your dog may be genetically predisposed to developing hip
dysplasia based on his/her genetic make-up (i.e., if his/her parents
have some of the genes involved in hip dysplasia). Even if the parents
do not show signs of hip dysplasia (either lameness or on an X-ray),
they can still produce puppies with hip dysplasia. But other factors
(including rapid weight gain as a puppy, and a diet too high in
protein and fat) can contribute to the development of hip dysplasia.
Hip dysplasia is always a concern in large
and giant breed dogs. Although it can occur in smaller breeds as
well, German Shepards, Rottweilers, and the retriever breeds seem
especially at risk.
How do I know if my dog has hip dysplasia?
Signs of hip dysplasia can show up as early
as six months of age in severe cases. The signs are usually related
to the arthritis in the hip joint. They include:
- lameness or stiffness in one or both rear
legs, especially several hours after hard exercise
- bunny-hopping when running (using both
rear legs simultaneously, like a rabbit)
- being slow to rise from a lying position
- reluctance to climb the stairs or jump
up
- a worsening of signs in cold or wet weather
Through a physical exam, we palpate the hip
joint for signs of looseness, popping or pain. The only way to know
for certain if your dog is affected is to do an X-ray of the hips.
What if my dog has hip dysplasia?
There are both medical and surgical options
for dogs with hip dysplasia. Treatment must be based on the severity
of the signs the dog is showing at home. Medical options are usually
tried first, and include weight loss, NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories),
and various nutraceuticals.
A dog with hip dysplasia should always be
kept at a normal to lean body weight. Sometimes weight loss alone
will help the dog be more comfortable and move around more easily.
We have a variety of anti-inflammatories available
by prescription to decrease the inflammation and pain associated
with arthritis. These do not stop the progression of arthritis,
but do make your dog much more comfortable.
A newer option in medical treatments is "nutraceuticals"
--dietary supplements designed to help slow the progression of the
disease. Some dogs are greatly helped by these, others not at all.
They are worthwhile to try, as they have few side effects and may
be beneficial.
Surgery is usually not considered until medical
options have failed, or proven unsatisfactory. Surgical options,
including a total hip replacement, are based on the dog's age and
size and the severity of the disease. These options need to be discussed
with your veterinarian, as they will vary from case to case.
A total hip replacement is a specialized procedure
that can only be done at surgical referral practices or university
veterinary schools. Although expensive (approximately $2,500 per
side), total hip replacement can yield excellent results.
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