Chihuahua Hip Problems
Hip problems are common in many large and giant dog breeds, where it may be assumed that they would more naturally occur due to the size of the dog. So it may be surprising to know that the small breed Chihuahua can also be afflicted with hip problems, such as hip dysplasia.
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History
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According to the petplace.com, hip dysplasia is a very painful and crippling disease that weakens a dog's hip, causing it to deteriorate and become arthritic. Hip dysplasia (HD) is due to the abnormal development of the hip joint and can range from mild and somewhat disabling to severe and crippling. It is more common, not only in larger dogs, but older dogs as well, though some puppies under 6 months develop this disease due to genetics.
Cause
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Vetinfo.com documents that HD is caused by the separation of the pelvic bone and the femur at the joint. When the collective tissue that cushions and lubricates the joint grows excessively, HD develops. Most times, according to smallbreeddogs.com, HD in Chihuahuas is a result of genetics and rate of growth, as well as environmental causes, such as diet and weight gain.
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Symptoms
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Some of the signs that a Chihuahua is experiencing hip problems are lameness in the back legs, an unsteady walk and difficulty getting up or lying down. The dog may be unable to run, jump or play. If any such change is noticed in the behavior of a Chihuahua, a veterinarian should be called immediately and given a description of all of the symptoms.
Diagnosis
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In diagnosing a Chihuahua, a veterinarian will study its gait as it moves around. He will also move the dog's hip joint to feel the range of motion; he will be listening for a clicking sound of the hip joint popping out and a grating sound of bone rubbing on bone, which indicates cartilage loss. X rays will be taken to confirm the degree of hip dysplasia and any arthritis.
Treatment
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Vetinfo.com states that treatment will depend on the Chihuahua's age, the severity of the problem and financial considerations. Some treatments may involve weight loss, exercise and anti-inflammatory medication to ease the pain and inflammation around the hip joint. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. In very young dogs, there is available surgery that fuses the bones of the hip joint to correct the dysplasia. Other surgical procedures are the triple pelvic osteotomy, a total hip replacement and a femoral head ostectomy. Depending on the condition of the Chihuahua, the veterinarian can help with the best treatment option for the dog's needs. These surgeries will provide the dog with a better quality of life with greater mobility and alleviated pain.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Chihuahua image by PhiMcree from Fotolia.com
