Canine hip dysplasia is caused by a loose
connection between hipbone and thighbone, due to abnormal
development in the pelvic joint. Subsequent hind-end pain
and lameness can range from mild to crippling. Canine hip
dysplasia is genetically transmitted, but environmental
factors also apply, since the pelvic joints of affected
dogs are normal at birth.
The primary abnormality in canine hip dysplasia is joint laxity, leading to
inflammation, resulting in pain and lameness. In a
vicious cycle, movement and weight-bearing force the ball
portion of the joint into an abnormal position. This
interferes with the formation of bone in the joint socket
rim, causing erosion of the cartilage, inflammation of
the joint lining, thickening of the joint casement,
formation of bone spurs, and eventual canine hip
dysplasia.
German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweillers, Great Danes, Golden
Retrievers, and St. Bernard's all have a higher incidence
of canine hip dysplasia, but it can affect all breeds.
When the genetic potential is present, rapid weight gain
will increase the severity of canine hip dysplasia. Hind
leg muscle mass is also a factor in canine hip dysplasia.
A strong muscular support is necessary to maintain joint
alignment: greyhounds, with tremendous muscular support
for a fine, bony skeleton, rarely have canine hip
dysplasia.
Conservative therapy for canine hip dysplasia consists
of weight control, exercise, vitamin supplementation and
pain relief medication. The most important element is the
maintenance of muscular support. Many people have reported
success with glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which are
components of the joint cartilage and increase joint fluid
production. Free & Easy for Dogs contains glycosaminoglycans to
increase synovial fluid. Surgical procedures including
total hip replacement are an option for advanced stages of
canine hip dysplasia.
