How to Diagnose Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Whether you breed dogs or have one as a pet, canine hip dysplasia is a concern for a lot of owners. It's a valid concern in that it's a common disease and can be very painful for the animal. Use these steps to help identify symptoms of canine hip dysplasia and get a start on a healthy road for your pet.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Know your dog's age and history. Certain breeds are predisposed to hip dysplasia and these dogs can begin to show signs at just a few months of age. Other dogs may not show signs until much later.

2. Watch your pet to see if they exhibit signs of discomfort, especially after exercise. In the early stages of hip dysplasia dogs may only have pain after playing or exercising, but in later stages of the disease they can have trouble with even daily activities.

3. Observe how your dog walks or runs. Compare to see if it's different than other dogs of the same breed or from their normal movements. The dog may limp or appear stiff, especially while getting up from lying down, and this may be a symptom of hip dysplasia.

4. Monitor their level of activity. If the dog is in pain they will naturally decrease their level of activity. Some dogs will have trouble climbing stairs or jumping onto the once prized edge of the bed when hip dysplasia sets in.

5. Take note of your dog's physical shape. As a result of decreased movement and exercise, the dog may lose muscle mass or alternately gain weight.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not be fooled if your dog is older and is just beginning to exhibit some of the signs described above. Although some of the symptoms may be due to aging, it is always best to have them checked out by a veterinarian.