Why are my dog's hocks wobbly and he's chewing them, but seems okay?

Question

My dog has what appears to be hyper-mobile hocks. They move in an unnatural way side to side, back and forth. He does not appear to be in discomfort. The only other symptom is he has been chewing at the areas. Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered

Menolly Cote, DVM, CVA · Accepted Answer

There can be some variation in the amount of laxity found in joints of different dogs. Excessive laxity can put dogs at higher risk for degenerative changes over time leading to arthritis. In some situations a surgery is needed to partially fuse the joint in dogs that become very painful or lame but this would not be done until there is a proven problem. If you feel like Max's hock are excessively mobile, it would be worth having him examined by your veterinarian. It may be beneficial to start him on joint supplements. It is also very important to maintain a healthy body weight in dogs that are prone to developing arthritis as excessive weight puts increased stress on the joints.

Why are my dog's hocks wobbly and he's chewing them, but seems okay?

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