Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: What Does it Mean and How to Help?

Hip Dysplasia refers to a skeletal condition in which the ball and socket of the hip joint do not fit together as they are meant to. This causes the bones to grind against each other in a very painful way causing your dog to walk odd or maybe not walk much at all. This disease usually  affects larger breeds of dogs but can also apply to smaller breeds in less common cases. 

Hip Dysplasia In Dogs: What Really Happens?

The hip joint consists of a ball on the top of the leg bone and a socket in the hip that the ball fits into. When there is improper development of the ball structure, it cannot fit perfectly into the socket and the joint may not be fully functional. This causes pain in the joints and discomfort after strenuous use. This condition can also be heredity and can be caused due to arthritis.

How To Identify Hip Dysplasia In Dogs?

Hip dysplasia might occur in your dogs even when they are young. Dogs with hip dysplasia may find it difficult to walk, jump or climb stairs. They may also experience pain and stiffness in the joint and may constantly lick or bite the area. They might also start lack interest in playing and exercise and will be lethargic. 

Common Signs of Hip Dysplasia:

• Difficulty standing
• Decrease in physical activity
• Limited mobility
• Audible grinding when moving the hips
• Loss of muscle mass in thighs
• Narrow stance of the back legs

Common Breeds That Are Affected:

• Bull Dogs
• St. Bernards
• Otterhound
• Basset Hound
• Golden Retrievers
• Rottweilers
• Great Danes
• Pugs
• Black Russian Terrier

What Can be Done for Hip Dysplasia In Dogs?

Exercises: Provide low-intensity exercises and follow a regular routine. Physical therapy and activities like swimming will help your dog.

Balanced Nutrition: Make sure you feed your dogs a well-balanced meal with all the necessary nutrients from puppy stage and on.

Dog Hip and Joint Supplements: You could try over the counter medications to relieve pain and inflammation in your dogs. Hemp Well Relief CBD assists hip and joint health and relaxes your dogs.

Weight Management: Maintain your dog’s weight so that obesity does not cause more problems. Being overweight may put more stress on the joints.

Apart from the above, talk to your veterinarian for more lifestyle changes and treatment options for your dogs.