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My Lab with hip dysplasia is limping and in pain. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 8 months old

my labrador 3 years old, has an indication of hip dysplasia, usually only limp with physical effort, but since yesterday has been showing pain and has limped. What can I do to help you? I'm already giving a chondroprotector.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on May 12th, 2018

The best thing you can do is to force him to rest for a few days. Continue is joint supplement and add in a fish oil for additional omega 3 fatty acids. Once he stops limping, I would be sure to exercise him daily. Start out with short times. The best exercise is slow steady exercises like walking or short swims. Too much running or sprints (ball chasing) can make them hurt themselves. If you have steps or hills, this is also a good method of training to do occasionally for short periods of time to help keep their rear leg muscles strong. Finally, if the limping isn't improving, worsens or he isn't bearing any weight on that leg, I would have your vet take a look at him. Your vet will be able to prescribe meds for arthritis or pain if needed. I hope this helps!

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