Canine Hip Dysplasia

is caused by a loose hipbone-thighbone connection.

Dog Hip Dysplasia

results from the abnormal development of the hip joint in the young dog. It leads to hind-end pain and lameness that can range from mild to crippling.

We know that

canine hip dysplasia

is genetically transmitted and multiple genes are involved.  Adding to hip dysplasia genetic influences are the environmental factors which add complexity to the disease.  The hip joints of dogs which ultimately develop dysplasia are normal at birth. In most cases, hip dysplasia in dogs will occur in both legs (bilaterally).  However, in approximately 7% of the cases only one hip will be affected.

The primary abnormality in canine hip dysplasia is joint laxity. This may lead to inflammation within the joint, resulting in pain and lameness.  Specifically, this laxity in young dogs initiates a vicious cycle, wherein movement and weight-bearing force the femoral head (the ball portion of the hip joint) into an abnormal position. This causes interference with the ossification (the formation of bone or a bony substance) of the ace tabular (hip socket) rim, erosion and fibrillation of the joint cartilage, stretching of the round ligament, inflammatory changes in the synovial membrane (joint lining), thickening of the joint capsule (joint casement) and formation of osteophytes (bone spurs).

German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweillers, Great Danes, Golden Retrievers, and St. Bernard's all appear to have a higher incidence of this disease but it can affect all breeds. When the genetic potential for dysplasia in dogs is present, feeding a high calorie, high protein diet which produces rapid weight gain will increase the incidence and severity of the disease.

The degree of hind leg muscle mass is also related to the prevalence of dog dysplasia hip problems. A well-balanced, muscular support is necessary to maintain proper joint alignment. This theory is supported by the fact that Greyhounds, with tremendous muscular support for a fine, bony skeleton, rarely have canine hip displacia

Treatment of canine hip dysplasia can be varied depending on the owners decision. Conservative therapy consists of weight control, moderate exercise, vitamin supplementation and pain relief medication. The most important element will always be the maintenance of muscular support.

Many people have reported success with using glycosaminoglycans or GAG's. GAG's are naturally occurring components of the joint cartilage and increase joint fluid production. Free & Easy for Dogs contains amounts of glycosaminoglycans to help increase synovial fluid.  Surgical procedures including total hip replacement are an option for those with severe and advanced stages of

canine hip dysplasia

.

Additional Reading:
Ester-C: Miracle Cure for Hip Dysplasia?

5 myths about Canine Hip Dysplasia

Canine Hip Dysplasia - Cornell University