Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
The hip joint in dogs functions as a ball and socket. But when hip dysplasia strikes, the ball and socket stop functioning properly. Hip dysplasia causes the ball and socket to grind and rub against each other instead of working together for comfortable movement. This leads to further hip deterioration and eventual loss of function.
This condition is painful for dogs, but it can also be difficult for pet parents to deal with. It can be upsetting to watch an otherwise healthy dog suffer from hip dysplasia's effects.
Causes of Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is often a hereditary condition. Although it is seen in large and giant breed dogs, it can affect several smaller breeds too.
Hip dysplasia tends to get worse over time if left untreated. It can eventually affect both hips. Hip dysplasia in older dogs can be exacerbated by other painful conditions. Most commonly, it is osteoarthritis.
While hip dysplasia is usually inherited, other factors can aggravate the genetic predisposition. Obesity, rapid growth, and certain types of exercise can all contribute.
Can a dog live a normal life with hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia can cause a great amount of pain for your dog. While they can live, it will not be a 'normal' life. However, as long as the hip dysplasia is treated and is well taken care of at home, any dog with the condition should go on to lead a full and active life.
Signs That Your Dog May Have Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia usually begins to manifest around five months, but your puppy may not show symptoms until they are in their middle or senior years. Keep an eye out for the following signs of hip dysplasia as your puppy grows older:
- Signs of discomfort or pain while exercising
- Reluctance to exercise, or climb stairs
- Their back legs are stiff when walking
- Stiffness when running
- Difficulties rising from a resting position
- Loss of muscle tone in back legs or thighs
- Grinding of the joint when moving
- Lameness in the hind end
- Decreased range of motion
- Running with a 'bunny hop'
How Vets Diagnose Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
During your dog’s wellness exams, your veterinarian will check their physical health and the condition of their joints.
Your vet may move your pet's hind legs to listen for grinding noises, signs of pain, or a reduction in range of motion. If your vet thinks your dog has hip dysplasia, they may ask for blood tests to look for signs of inflammation. X-rays may also be useful to determine the severity of the hip dysplasia.
Dog Hip Dysplasia Surgery
Treatment options for dogs suffering from hip dysplasia range based on the severity of the condition, and may include lifestyle changes, pain meds, and surgery. Recovery from hip dysplasia surgery for dogs is usually around six weeks. The cost of hip dysplasia surgery in dogs also varies depending on the size of your dog and the severity of the condition. There are 3 dog hip dysplasia surgeries commonly used:
Femoral Head Osteotomy (FHO)
The femoral head (ball) of the hip joint is removed, and the body is then allowed to create a "false" joint. FHO surgery will not restore your dog's normal hip function, but it can be an effective way to manage the pain and discomfort that hip dysplasia causes.
Your dog's surgeon will give you specific instructions for caring for your pet after FHO surgery, but for at least 30 days, you must keep your dog from engaging in any strenuous physical activity. FHO surgery usually takes six weeks to recover from. When your dog's healing is complete, he or she will be able to resume normal physical activity.
Double or triple pelvic osteotomy (DPO/TPO)
Hip dysplasia in dogs under the age of 10 months is most commonly treated with double or triple pelvic osteotomy surgeries. DPO/TPO surgery involves cutting specific areas of the pelvic bone and rotating the segments to improve the ball and socket joint's function.
Physical rehabilitation (physiotherapy for dogs) will almost certainly be required before full mobility can be restored (although you may notice joint stability improve within as little as four weeks). The recovery time for your dog after DPO/TPO surgery should be around four to six weeks.
Total Hip Replacement (THR)
For the surgical treatment of hip dysplasia in dogs, total hip replacement surgery is usually the first option. This surgery is usually recommended if the dog is in a lot of pain or is on the verge of becoming completely immobile.
THR is the most effective surgery, and it involves replacing the entire hip joint with plastic and metal implants. THR can help your dog's hip function return to normal and relieve most of the pain associated with hip dysplasia.
A total hip replacement is both the most drastic and the most expensive treatment option for hip dysplasia. THR surgery is performed by certified veterinary surgeons, and the artificial hip components used in THR surgery are custom-made for your dog.
Expect a 12-week recovery period to allow for proper healing to take place. If your dog has hip dysplasia in both hips, surgery on one hip may be performed at a time, with a three-to-six-month gap between surgeries.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.