Hip Dysplasia in Labradors

Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint, where the femur, or thighbone, meets the pelvic or hipbones. When the “ball” part of the femur does not fit normally into the “socket” of the hip joint, inflammation, also called osteoarthritis, can develop and the bone will gradually degenerate. The condition is disorder in which genetics interacts with environment. It tends to occur in large dogs in which the hip joint has the task of carrying a lot of weight. Labradors are one breed with a high incidence of hip dysplasia.

To avoid getting a Labrador puppy prone to hip dysplasia, check your local Labrador club or the American Kennel Club and ask for the name of a responsible breeder who does not breed dogs with dysplasia or a family history of the disorder. Once you have a Labrador, keeping him or her fit and slim will help to avoid placing too much weight upon the joint. Ask your veterinarian for a good diet and a recommendation as to a good weight for your dog. Regular exercise is healthy for this active breed and will help to keep off unwanted weight, although too much exercise when the puppy is young can predispose to hip dysplasia, so get a good plan to follow when you first bring home your puppy.

When a Labrador limps or appears to be in pain with walking or running, check the paws first. If there are no burrs or other foreign objects that can cause pain, your Labrador’s hips should be checked. An xray will tell if hip dysplasia is present.

If hip dysplasia is diagnosed, several treatment options are available. Walking a little each day helps to strengthen the leg muscles, although if the dog limps he or she should be allowed to rest. Swimming is also a good way to build muscles, and it has the advantage of not putting too much weight on the joints. Activities such as leaping hurdles and catching Frisbees should be avoided, as they put too much sudden stress upon the joint. Staying warm and dry is also helpful to your dog. An orthopedic foam bed will help weight off the joints, and should be placed in a warm place away from drafts.

Your veterinarian can recommend medication for your dog. Glucosamine and chondroitin are frequently used to aid the chondrocytes, cells that make collagen, in repairing the joint. Some antibiotics can be given to slow down the breakdown of cartilage. Vitamin C can be given to help build cartilage or creatine can be given to help build muscles. Pain medications can alleviate your dog’s suffering. Supplements and other medications can have side effects, so, again, get professional advice.

If lifestyle and medical treatment fails, surgery is also an option. Total hip replacement can often restore the dog to full activity. Another option is to remove the top of the thighbone and allow scar tissue to form, making a pseudojoint.

Choose your Labrador wisely and keep him or her in good shape, If hip dysplasia does develop, there are several options available. Good luck.

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