How to check if a dog has hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a relatively common and concerning disease in dogs, which has a great negative impact on their quality of life. It is a hereditary disease in which the hip joints of affected dogs fail to develop properly, leading to abnormal joint wear, pain, and lameness. As dog owners, we have the responsibility to stay vigilant at all times and proactively determine whether our furry friends are suffering from this disease.

First of all, it is crucial to understand the common signs of hip dysplasia in dogs. One of the earliest noticeable signs may be a change in the dog's gait. A dog that used to be full of energy and bouncing around may now limp while walking or have an abnormal and stiff pace. The smooth and natural movements it used to have are gone, and its hind legs move very stiffly. When running, it may even jump with both legs at the same time like a rabbit. This is because the abnormally developed hip joints make the dog feel uncomfortable, making it difficult for them to move their hind legs in a coordinated and natural way.

Another obvious sign is that the dog loses interest in activities it once loved. If your dog used to be enthusiastic about walking, running, or playing fetch, but now shows no interest or even avoids these activities, it is very likely that the pain caused by hip dysplasia is to blame. They also have difficulty getting up from a lying or sitting position, especially after a period of rest. You may see them struggling to prop themselves up with their front legs, while their hindquarters are hard to lift off the ground.

When petting the dog, pay attention to its reaction as well. When you gently manipulate the dog's hip joints or hind legs, if it is very sensitive and even cries out, this is a strong indication that there is a problem with the dog's body. In addition, over time, the muscles in the dog's hind legs may atrophy due to long-term compensation for the pain and limited mobility of the hip joints. Compared with the front legs, the muscles in the hind legs will become obviously thinner and weaker.

Once you suspect that your dog has hip dysplasia, it is essential to seek professional help in a timely manner. A veterinarian is the best person to accurately diagnose this disease. Veterinarians usually conduct a comprehensive physical examination first, carefully touching the dog's hip joints to check for signs of looseness, abnormal movement, or pain. They may also perform a special examination called the Ortolani test. By gently manipulating the hip joints, they can sense whether there is a clicking or popping sound, which often means hip joint dislocation or instability.

In addition to the physical examination, X-ray films are often an important basis for diagnosing hip dysplasia. X-rays allow veterinarians to clearly observe the structure of the hip joints, including the shape of the femoral head (the ball part of the joint) and the acetabulum (the socket part of the joint). In dogs with hip dysplasia, X-ray films may show an abnormal shape of the femoral head, a shallow acetabulum, or signs of osteoarthritis, which is usually a secondary complication caused by abnormal joint mechanics.

It should be noted that hip dysplasia can affect dogs of all ages, but it is more common in large and giant dog breeds. Breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Great Danes are particularly prone to this disease. However, small dog breeds are not completely immune. Early detection is the key. The earlier it is detected, the sooner we can provide appropriate treatment and care for the dog, helping them relieve pain and maintain a better quality of life. We should always pay attention to every move of the dog and safeguard their health with love and care.