My puppy has hip dysplasia. What are my options without surgery?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on May 19th, 2017

  I'm assuming Dobie was diagnosed with possible hip dysplasia, which unfortunately is common in Golden Retrievers. There are some surgical options for severe hip dysplasia in dogs so you should talk to your veterinarian if you might be interested in referral for surgery. Surgery is usually only recommended for dogs who are severely affected. Hip dysplasia can lead to arthritis later in life, so some things you could potentially do if surgery is not an option include making sure she stays thin, giving her consistent moderate exercise (daily walks on a leash or swimming would be best), and routine veterinary care. Joint supplements are recommended by some veterinarians as well - talk to your vet about options. The diet chart is a little more difficult since commercial dog foods vary in their calorie contents. All commercial dog foods should be nutritionally balanced, and I would definitely recommend choosing a puppy food until Dobie is at least one year old or fully grown. You can use the feeding recommendations on the bag as a general guideline (start at the lower end of the recommended amount) and ask your veterinarian how much Dobie should weigh. Royal Canin makes a Golden Retriever formula that you may want to try.

  

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  Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on December 12th, 2018

  Hello. Since Pharah is not clinical & showing no signs of a limp or pain, then I would not restrict any activity with her ( many agility dogs will have signs of hip dysplasia with radiographs, but continue to compete very successfully ). The important thing in this point in her life is to control her weight. Obesity is the worse thing for dogs with HD. You might want to consider starting her on a joint lubricant such as Adequan injections ( 2 injections per week x 4 weeks, then monthly for life ), & Omega 3 Fatty Acids 50-100 mg/kg/day of the EPA. I like EcosaDerm, but your vet may have a good recommendation. If she shows signs of a limp, or is reluctant to complete a task, especially as she ages, then discontinue these activities. Otherwise, exercise & weight control are equally important for dogs with HD. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

  

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  Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 12th, 2017

  This dog does have some degree of hip dysplasia visible on the X-rays. Judging by this picture he does not appear to need surgery at this time. With this issue the dog will likely develop arthritis sooner in life than another dog without the dysplasia. I have seen worse cases before. If the dog is not painful or limping he may do fine for a long period of time. If you do decide to adopt this dog some it is important that you always keep him at a healthy weight, as excess weight will put undue stress on the joints.

  

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