Hip Dysplasia In Labrador Retrievers

Hip dysplasia in labrador retrievers is common enough to be a recognized hazard with this breed. It is not known whether it is genetic or environmental. Most people believe that the puppy was born with it. Breeders usually have their breeding dogs checked by orthopedic veterinarians but the problem still occurs so some breeders claim that it is caused by a puppy that is too heavy for its legs being over-exercised or under-exercised.

Hip dysplasia is a malformation in which the ball at the top of the thigh bone does not fit correctly into the socket of the joint on the hip bone. Whether or not it is genetic, it does not usually cause problems until the puppy grows. If it is severe an older puppy may develop problems. In a less severe case it will only become apparent in the adult dog or may not cause any pain until old age when arthritis tends to develop.

Symptoms of dysplasia center around patterns of movement or posture. These include:

- limping

- using both hind legs together like a rabbit when running

- always sitting or lying with legs straight out instead of close in to the body

- swaying back end when walking caused by loose hip joints

- not jumping up at you, not jumping onto furniture, and not getting into the kind of rough play that you would expect of a young dog.

Your dog can have some of these symptoms and not have hip dysplasia, but any sign of pain when walking, running or jumping should be checked by a veterinarian, who will take x-rays. If dysplasia is found, you will probably be referred to a pet orthopedic surgeon and there will be various options.

If surgical treatment is needed, it can either be performed very early as a preventive measure, or postponed until the dog is older. Some dogs will suffer a little as puppies but then seem to grow out of it and have no problems until old age. However, if your dog is in pain or is not willing to exercise, surgery will probably be recommended. Surgical treatment can involve grafts onto the hip socket, repositioning the socket, cutting away the ball at the top of the thigh, or total hip replacement. The options depend on your individual dog and its age.

Remember that the important thing is whether your dog is in pain. Even if the x-rays show quite severe dysplasia, your dog may be able to manage it without symptoms or restrictions. Some people avoid surgery for their dysplastic dogs by giving nutritional supplements similar to those taken by human arthritis patients. Planned exercise programs, acupuncture and chiropractic treatment can also help. It is important to make sure that the dog does not become overweight, which will worsen the condition. Hip dysplasia in labrador retrievers requires careful management if surgery is to be avoided.