Hip dysplasia

What are the causes and symptoms of hip dysplasia?

The exact causes of hip dysplasia are not yet fully understood, but there are some factors that increase the risk. These include:

• Genetics: hip dysplasia is hereditary and is more common in certain breeds, such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
• Diet: Too high or too low a calorie intake, as well as a deficiency or excess of certain nutrients, such as calcium or phosphorus, can affect the growth and development of bones and joints.
• Exercise: Too much or too little exercise can also have negative effects on the hip joints. Too much exercise can lead to overloading and wear and tear of the joints, while too little exercise can lead to weakening of the muscles and increased fat accumulation.
• Age: Hip dysplasia can become noticeable as early as puppyhood, but can also occur later in life. The older the dog gets, the more the joint wears out and the more severe the symptoms become.

The symptoms of hip dysplasia can vary depending on the severity and stage of the disease. The most common signs include

• Lameness or stiffness in the hind legs
• Difficulty standing up, lying down, climbing stairs or jumping
• Sensitivity to pain or cracking noises in the hip area
• Changed gait or limping
• Reduced activity or listlessness
• Weight loss or loss of appetite
• Behavioral changes such as aggression or depression

How is hip dysplasia diagnosed and treated?

If you suspect that your dog has hip dysplasia, you should have him examined by a vet as soon as possible. The vet will carry out a clinical examination and check the mobility, stability and pain of the hip joints. They will also take x-rays to assess the degree of deformity and osteoarthritis.

The treatment of hip dysplasia depends on the age, state of health and severity of the condition. There are various ways to alleviate the symptoms and improve the dog's quality of life. These include:

• Medication: The vet can prescribe anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medication to reduce the symptoms. However, these should only be administered after consultation with the vet, as they can have side effects.
• Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises can strengthen the muscles, promote blood circulation and maintain mobility. Physiotherapy can be carried out by a vet or a specialized physiotherapist.
• Weight management: Excess weight puts additional strain on the joints and exacerbates the symptoms. It is therefore important to monitor the dog's weight and reduce it if necessary. A balanced diet and appropriate exercise are essential for this.
• Food supplements: There are various food supplements that can support joint health, such as glucosamine, chondroitin or omega-3 fatty acids. These can stimulate cartilage formation, inhibit inflammation and improve joint lubrication. However, the effectiveness of these products has not been scientifically proven and they should only be used after consultation with a vet.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct or replace the hip joints. There are various surgical procedures, such as femoral head resection, pelvic swivel osteotomy or total hip replacement. However, surgery is associated with risks and requires intensive aftercare and rehabilitation.

How can hip dysplasia be prevented?

Hip dysplasia is not always preventable, but there are some measures that can reduce the risk or at least slow down the progression of the condition. These include:

• Breeding: If you buy a dog from a breeder, make sure they are reputable and have tested their breeding stock for hip dysplasia. You should also ask to see the breeding papers and the hip joint values of the parent animals. The lower the score, the better the hip joint quality.
• Puppy rearing: The first few months of life are crucial for the development of the puppy's bones and joints. You should therefore make sure that he receives a high-quality, balanced diet that is appropriate for his growth. In addition, you should not overwork or underwork him, but provide him with an appropriate amount of exercise and rest. Avoid abrupt movements, jumping or slippery floors, which can damage the joints.
• Prevention: Even if your dog appears healthy, you should have him checked regularly by a vet to detect and treat any signs of hip dysplasia at an early stage. You should also keep an eye on his weight and provide him with a healthy diet and sufficient exercise.