Symptoms and Treatment of Dysplasia In Dogs

Dysplasia is a genetic disorder which can lead to abnormal development in certain joints such as hip, elbow or the knee. Dysplasia in dogs can also lead to forms of canine arthritis due to the abnormal structure of the joints which can cause cartilage within the joints to wear away. When this occurs, bones may become exposed and begin to rub against each other. This not only causes inflammation and pain but stiffness and reduced mobility.

Dysplasia in dogs can be seen in the hip joints. Hip dysplasia occurs more commonly in larger and giant breed such as German Shepherds. Puppies may begin to develop normally with symptoms only being seen later in life but typically before 18 months. In healthy hip joints, ligaments help to support the joint socket and ensure flexible mobility. With the progression of hip dysplasia, the ball and socket has formed abnormally, the ligaments have become loose resulting in abnormal structure of the muscles and connective tissues and less support for the hip joint. The bones in the hip joint and hind leg may begin to separate leading to inflammation and pain. The cartilage in between the femur and pelvic bone begins to wear leading to arthritis. The body is not able to produce enough cartilage to replace this in time. To avoid pain, your dog may avoid moving their hip resulting in a "bunny hopping" gait where they use both legs together.

Dysplasia in dogs can also affect the elbow and knee, again as a result of the developmental abnormality of the joints and cartilage. It is often associated with osteochondrosis a cartilage disease where the cartilage is separated from the joint surface. X rays and MRIs can confirm this. Symptoms may present early when your dog is a puppy. Other factors, such as nutrition (decrease in Vitamin C and increase in calcium) or previous trauma are risk factors in developing these forms of dysplasia.

X rays, CT, MRIs and hip scoring tests can confirm dysplasia. Although there is no cure, pain and inflammation can be controlled through the use of NSAIDs but in advanced stages hip replacement or surgery may be required. It is also important to control your dog's weight to avoid weight gain which can place additional stress on the joints. Similarly, a healthy balanced diet ensures your dog receives the appropriate nutrients for joint support. Natural joint supplements containing ingredients specific for cartilage formation can also be used in addition to short term relief from prescription medications to address symptoms of Dysplasia in dogs.