The hip joint is a ball and socket kind of joint, where the end of the thigh bone fits perfectly into the socket of the hip. When suffering from hip dysplasia the head of the thigh bone does not insert into the socket properly. The normal functioning of the hip is considerably affected due to this. The cartilage of the joint eventually wears out, causing immense pain and discomfort. It can occur in all animals, but is most common among dogs. In very rare cases, it can also occur in humans. Larger dog breeds like German Shepherds, Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, Doberman, etc are genetically more prone to this health condition.

Causes

Though, in most cases, it is caused due to genetic disorders, there can be several other factors which can affect the dog. Hip injury or ligament tear at a very young age can also cause the health condition in dogs. Rapid growth of puppies in the period between the three to ten months of age can also lead to abnormal hip development. Along with this, the overexertion of the hip joints from a very young age can also cause hip dysplasia.

Symptoms

Hip dysplasia can be noticed in puppies who are as young as that of 8 to 10 months. Puppies will show resistance to jumping, running and other physical activities involving the hip. Dogs usually have a tendency to hop like a rabbit while running. There is also stiffness and soreness in the limb. The leg pain in dogs worsens and the hip weakens further after a period of time. After some months, the dogs completely avoid any physical activity like jumping, running or walking. They also avoid climbing stairs and even stretching of the legs may hurt badly for them. All this can lead to hip arthritis and in severe cases, the dogs will not be able to walk without assistance.

Treatment Options

Firstly, doctor will advice an X- ray for more accurate analysis and treatment of the condition. After the diagnosis usually there are mainly three lines - medications, surgical, and behavioral treatment.

Medications
Medications are generally prescribed to lessen the severity of the symptoms. Doctors may prescribe drugs like Rimadyl and Etogesic, which help to lessen the pain, soreness and inflammation of the hip joint. These medications have some side effects in dogs like nausea and diarrhea. Nutraceuticals can also be prescribed by the doctors, as these drugs are not only free from side effects, but are also effective against arthritis related problems. Over the counter drugs like aspirin and ascriptin can reduce pain and inflammation, but they should also be given under medical supervision.

Surgical Treatment
Several surgical options are available today. However, this options are availed according to the severity of the condition and the age of the dog. When a dog is about four to five months of age, Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis surgery procedure is opted. In this the two pelvic bones are fused together in order to allow proper movement of the joints. The advantage of this surgery is that it helps the other pelvic bones to develop normally and reduces the chances of osteoarthritis. Another option is Triple Pelvic Osteotomy. This surgery option can be taken in dogs which are less than 10 months of age. This procedure involves cutting and rotation of the pelvis in such a way that, the head of the femur fits tightly into the socket. The last option in severe cases might be total replacement of the hip.

Behavioral Treatment
Dog obesity is a problem because it can cause additional pressure on the joints. So the weight of dog must be kept under control. Giving the right kind of dog foods will help to maintain appropriate weight. Exercise like swimming and moderate forms of physical activities like walking and jogging can also benefit the dog. Massaging the hips and joints of the dog every weekends can not only help to relax muscles but also alleviate pain.

As hip dysplasia is hereditary, selective breeding of dogs can help up to some extent. Hip dysplasia can be very painful, so take proper dog care and avail the appropriate treatment that your canine friends needs.