Hip Dysplasia

This is a very common skeletal disease in large breed dogs and some purebred cats. It occurs when the patient is born with a malformation of the hip joint.

This disease is genetic in certain breeds: German Shepherds, Labs, Golden retrievers, and rottweilers. They are born with a certain laxity in the hip joint which causes unnatural rotation. This will cause cartilage destruction and arthritis will develop. Pets that develop rapidly while young or become overweight are predisposed to develop hip dysplasia.

Some patients are completely asymptomatic but still have a mild form of hip dysplasia. As the disease progresses, they will have difficulty rising, be reluctant to run or climb stairs, and may even "bunny hop" when walking.

It is imperative to diagnose this disease as early as possible. The earlier the treatment, the better the prognosis. Every pet known to be predisposed for hip dysplasia or showing signs should have a radiograph performed around 6 months of age. While a pet can not be certified as free from hip dysplasia until they are 2 years old, early detection can help stop the progression.If the pet is diagnosed with hip dysplasia, medical versus surgical treatment is considered. Medical treatment does not stop the progression and simply controls the patient’s discomfort. In very mild cases, this may be considered, but the disease will eventually progress and the pain will no longer be controlled. Joint supplement and anti-inflammatories are generally used.There are several different surgeries available depending on the severity of the dysplasia, how old the pet is, and how much the pet weighs. If the patient is less than 1 year old, the surgeries tend to be more effective and may actually stop the progression of arthritis. In older, heavier pets, or in very severe cases, salvage procedures such as total hip replacements are being performed.Any pet diagnosed with hip dysplasia should never be bred. Large breed dogs should not gain weight quickly and special puppy diets that are formulated for large breeds should be fed. Exercises such as swimming and walking uphill are beneficial.