Arthritis and Hip Dysplasia

Arthritis and hip dysplasia are a common problem in large breed dogs, especially those that have been inbred or the victim of selective breeding. Hip dysplasia is characterized as arthritis in the hip joint and is very painful for your dog.

Common breeds that suffer from hip dysplasia:

• GSDs
• Akitas
• Huskies
• Great Danes
• Malamutes
• Australian Shepherds
• Belgian Shepherds
• Golden Retrievers
• Flat Coat Retrievers
• Labrador Retrievers
• Bull Mastiffs
• Other Mastiffs

There are many others but these are some of the usual suspects likely to develop this very painful disease. Avoiding breeders that practice inbreeding is only one way to ensure that your dog doesn't develop this. Sadly, it happens all too often and if your dog starts to show symptoms, talk with your Vet immediately to determine the best course of treatment.

As we all age, humans and dogs alike, we are prone to arthritis. This is not the same as hip dysplasia. As with hip dysplasia, if you notice symptoms of arthritis in Buffy, take her to the Vet. There are many treatment options. Although there is nothing on the market to stop its progression, there are myriad of treatments, such as cortisone shots, anti-inflammatory pills and liquids that your Vet may try to ease the pain due to inflammation.

Symptoms to Look Out For that Could Indicate Arthritis or Hip Dysplasia

• Lethargy
• Limping
• Difficulty or inability to jump the way Buffy used to
• Running much more slowly or walking only
• Difficulty getting in the car and requiring your help
• Crying out when Buffy does something she used to do easily
• Favoring one leg over another, especially in the hind quarters

If you have noticed any of these symptoms, please take Buffy to the Vet at once. If you have ever had arthritis, you know yourself that it's quite painful. Surely you don't want your dog to suffer needlessly.

Dogs can live quite long and happy lives with both hip dysplasia and arthritis, assuming that your Vet and you are managing the symptoms. Buffy may not be the same exact happy-go-lucky girl she used to be, but she can once again love the games that you used to play, take brisk walks and ride in the car with the window open, barking at moving clouds.

Photo Credits: Эмыли Mapxc

This post involves:

akitas, australian shepherds, belgian shepherds, cortisone, cortisone shots, golden retrievers, great danes, hind quarters, hip dysplasia, inbreeding, labrador retrievers, large breed dogs, lethargy, mastiffs

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Health and Medical

Posted by Dog Training Pet on August 7, 2011 in Health and Medical. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.