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back to Library Index...Q: What is canine hip dysplasia (CHD)?
A: Hip dysplasia is one of the most common skeletal developmental
defects in dogs, being especially prevalent in larger working
and sporting breeds of dogs. When it occurs, the upper (ball)
portion of the hind legs doesn't fit properly into the socket
of the hip. An instability (called subluxation) within the ball-and-socket
joint itself allows the hip bone to pull apart as the dog grows.
Q: What causes CHD?
A: No one knows for sure. Experts agree that the tendency to develop
CHD is inherited. Also, most agree that the outcome is not influenced
by the dog's diet, other than caloric control to reduce the weight
of the animal. They suspect that the animal's overall weight and/or
very rapid growth during puppyhood may be contributing factors.
Q: Can't breeders eliminate the trait through subsequent generations?
A: Concerned dog breeders and veterinarians do use selective breeding
practices to minimize the likelihood of the disorder appearing
in the offspring. Prospective parents are x-rayed for the defect
and are not bred if the disorder is diagnosed. Even with these
precautions, some offspring of non-CHD parents may still have
the tendency to develop dysplasia without ever experiencing symptoms
themselves and pass it on to their progeny.
Q: Can dysplasia be detected at birth?
A: No. In severely affected puppies, it can be diagnosed as early
as six months. However, the majority of dogs first show symptoms
when they're about 2 years old.
Q: What are common symptoms:
A: Some dogs with CHD have no apparent symptoms. Others have lameness,
coupled with arthritic pain. In severe cases, CHD causes deterioration
of the joint, limiting the dog's mobility. The condition may be
quite painful and may be more pronounced on cold, damp days. Typical
symptoms include: lameness, especially after prolonged exercise,
waddling or swaying gait, difficulty in rising or climbing stairs,
reluctance to move, changes in temperament, pain when hips move,
poorly developed musculature in the hind quarters and leg-carrying.
Q: How is CHD diagnosed?
A: An accurate diagnosis of hip dysplasia can only be confirmed
by the use of x-rays. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)
has developed uniform standards used in making the determination.
Q: How is CHD treated?
A: There are many options available from conservative medical
management to a total hip replacement. The use of these options
will depend on the dog's weight, age, and severity of the disease.
Your veterinarian will be able to help you decide which options
are best for your pet.