My dog yelps and limps from her back leg. Is it hip dysplasia?

Question

A few days ago, sometimes when she was laying down and you barely touched her she'd suddenly yelp, i'd feel all over her body, but couldn't find anything. Then if she's been laying down for a while a gets up she have a limp, specifically in her right back leg. It doesn't seem as bad as it was now though, but i have stopped doing anything that puts stress on her hips. I was just wondering what it could be? Just afraid it is hip dysplasia. Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Female | spayed | 3 years and 8 months old | 35 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

Yes, it could be hip dysplasia. It could also be a luxating patella (knee cap that moves out of place) or even a tear of the cruciate ligament; among other things. The hip dysplasia can be easily ruled out with x-rays. The luxating patella can be felt on physical exam with an experienced vet. The cruciate ligament is harder to diagnose. If I had to venture a guess, I would say, based on your description, it is her cruciate ligament. I suggest you video tape what she is doing on your phone and make an appointment with your vet. Show them the video and then discuss your options after your vet does a good exam. Just because dogs don't always cry out in pain, does not mean they are not in pain. She does have pain somewhere. We need to figure out where and then, at the very least, the vet can prescribe some medications for that. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

My dog yelps and limps from her back leg. Is it hip dysplasia?

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