Hip Dysplasia in the Poodle: Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

Hip joints are important ball and socket joints in dogs and help your Poodle to remain active and mobile. Any condition which affects the hip joints can lead to pain, inflammation, and less mobility in the joint. Canine hip dysplasia is a form of osteoarthritis and can be found in the Poodle and other dog breeds. This disease can be inherited and is polygenic. This suggests that a combination of genes cause it rather than one specific gene. Environmental factors can impact canine hip dysplasia although they are not the cause. Canine hip dysplasia can be seen in young puppies as youthful as 7 weeks old. Symptoms vary and some dogs may not show any, others may show difficulty walking, standing up from sitting down and walking stairs. Your veterinarian will carry out diagnostic tests such as ultrasounds, X-rays, and a physical examination. They will often rule out other conditions and listen to the pet owner's account of their pet's symptoms.

Dogs that are susceptible to hip dysplasia should not be fed high-calorie or high protein food, especially as the condition progresses. Too much or too little calcium can also negatively affect developing hip joints. A veterinarian should be spoken with to identify whether the ideal amount of calcium is being consisted of in a dog's diet regimen. Specially developed meals are readily available with the ideal blend of nutrients for pets with a genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia. While these excellent quality meals set you back more than less costly brand names, they are well worth the financial investment to offer a dog the most effective quality of life possible and to potentially prevent large veterinarian costs in the future. Various stretching and muscle toning exercises are useful to protect hip joints. Heat also helps to reduce symptoms, and a heated bath may help your poodle. However, high impact activities such as running and jumping may exacerbate symptoms. Also try to keep exercise to small periodic exercises rather than walking or running for long distances. Weather may also exacerbate symptoms, particularly damp and cold weather and exercises should be avoided during these times.

There are many medications available to help manage symptoms. Similarly, there are many over the counter medications and joint supplements which contain ingredients proven to support bone health. These contain ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Non -steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are also useful. Hip dysplasia can also lead to other conditions such as arthritis. For serious cases, surgery may be suggested but this does have many side effects and requires recovery time and physical therapy afterwards. There are also assistive equipment and devices available and which can be used in the house to help your pet remain mobile such as steps, traction to prevent slipping.