Have you ever seen your large breed puppy or young adult do the “bunny hop” or seem like his/her back legs are kept well under the body? This can be a sign of hip dysplasia, a disease of the hip joint where cartilage forming to bone is abnormal. This can lead to the hip joint becoming lax and then further leading to severe arthritis! The disease carries a genetic and environmental stress factor. Certain breeds are more susceptible, such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Samoyeds, and Rottweilers , to name a few.
Keeping the calories cut 25% while they are growing pups, and not feeding adlib, will reduce the incident of hip dysplasia by 50%. If pain is evident in the hips, especially after manipulation, it is definitely warranted to take hip x-rays while under anesthesia. There are a number of treatments available for dogs with hip dysplasia, including surgery. Please call your veterinarian for further information on this abnormality.
Michael J. Ponte, DVM
1029 Sarno Road
Melbourne, Fl. 32935
If you have any general questions regarding your pets’ health, call Dr. Ponte at 321-254-1754
