Signs of dysplasia in dogs. Articular dysplasia in dogs. Reasons for the development of dysplasia

Experienced breeders are well aware of the genetic disease hip dysplasia that affects some large dog breeds. The disease is diagnosed at an early age and, if not properly treated, can lead to complete immobilization of the animal.

Hip dysplasia is most common in large breed dogs.

Hip dysplasia was first isolated in dogs and described in the United States 60 years ago, although the disease has been diagnosed and treated in humans for a long time. Subsequently, Swedish veterinarians proved that the disease is caused by hereditary factors and most often occurs in large dogs. Although the size of the animal is not a determining factor in the development of the disease, since even small breeds, such as Chow Chows, also suffer from hip dysplasia (HJD).

Observations by veterinarians have shown that puppies are born with normally developed joints, which are then subject to disease under the influence of a hereditary predisposition. At the same time, in large breeds, the disease progresses at a high speed, as they rapidly gain body weight, which is a burden for fragile joints. The disease is especially dangerous for short-legged breeds.

Most often, hip dysplasia (HJD) affects German Shepherds., Newfoundlands, St. Bernards, Rottweilers, Great Danes, Boxers and. Greyhounds are free from the disease. In 89% of cases, dysplasia affects two hip joints at once, 3.3% are unilateral lesions of the left joint, and 7.7% of the right joint.

Hip dysplasia (DJD) is a defect in the development of the joint in the area of ​​the glenoid cavity. At first, the disease was called subluxation of the articular head, since it increases the gap between the head of the bone and the articular cavity. The bone does not adhere tightly to the joint, resulting in friction and wear of the head. The joint begins to deform, flatten.

Currently, the concept of dysplasia sums up all deviations from the normal formation of the femoral joint in dogs.

The pronounced symptoms of the disease appear in 1-1.5 years, after the end of the intensive growth of the dog. But a genetic predisposition cannot become one hundred percent an impetus to the development of the disease. Doctors have found that the development of the disease is influenced by a combination of hereditary predisposition and the influence of environmental factors.

Important. It is desirable to exclude the presence of a predisposition to dysplasia already at the stage of acquiring a puppy. Before buying, you need to study the documents of the parents. However, it is worth remembering that even two puppies from the same litter, having a predisposition to the disease, having fallen into different living conditions, may have a different development of the disease.

There are reasons that provoke the disease and contribute to its development:

• Nutritional imbalance. An excess amount of meat in the absence of vegetables, cereals and fruits in the diet quickly leads to pain in the joints.
• An excess of phosphorus and calcium in the body. Their excess in food negatively affects the development of bone tissue.
• Obesity. Excess weight leads to increased stress on the joints and their deformation increases.
• Heavy physical activity.
• Inactivity.
• Limb injuries.

An attentive owner will immediately determine that something is wrong with his pet. A change in gait and a violation of the appearance of the dog indicates the development of pathology.

The following signs may indicate defects:

• Limping, swaying while walking.
• Incorrect setting of the paws when running (repulsion from the surface with two legs at once).
• Stiffness of movements.
• Wrong posture when lying - hind legs turned in different directions.
• body asymmetry. The dog transfers the bulk of the body to the front of the body, while the pelvis becomes narrow, as the muscles of the hind legs atrophy.
• Swelling of the joints.
• Pain when touching the paws.

Any of these signs should be a reason to contact the veterinarian. Timely assistance to the dog will help slow down or completely stop the development of the disease. Dysplasia, detected at an early age, when the bones are still developing, is cured much faster.

Distinct clinical manifestations of DTS occur at different ages of dogs and depend on the individual characteristics of the dog. In mild cases, the disease manifests itself only in some weakness of the hind limbs of the animal, which does not affect its working condition. Lameness begins to progress as physical activity increases. The dog refuses to perform some commands, quickly gets tired.

Dysplasia is diagnosed by a veterinarian after a thorough examination of the dog and an X-ray examination. The doctor probes the dog's joints, evaluates their mobility, listens for the presence of squeaks or friction during flexion and extension of the paws. In most cases, an experienced specialist can make a primary diagnosis already on the basis of these signs.

The dog is scheduled for an X-ray examination. A picture can be taken only after the introduction of anesthesia, since it is impossible to ensure the immobility of the animal without this. An x-ray will allow the doctor to examine the location of the glenoid cavity and femoral neck, to determine the presence of deformities.

To obtain high-quality images, you must follow the following rules:

• Small dogs are examined only after 1 year, large - after 1.5 years.
• Each animal is filmed twice.
• The picture is taken in the supine position, with legs extended parallel.

Arthroscopy is an examination aimed at an objective assessment of the condition of the joint and the recognition of dysplasia. The procedure is endoscopic. By inserting a miniature camera into the joint area through a small puncture, the doctor can examine the structure of the cartilage. This examination is expensive and is not carried out in all clinics.

After the examination, the doctor determines the category of dysplasia:

• A - a joint without severe pathology.
• B - predisposition to disease.
• C - the initial stage of the disease.
• D - medium dysplasia.
• E - severe form of dysplasia.

For the treatment of dysplasia, depending on the state of the articular tissue and the individual state of the animal's body, conservative and surgical treatment is used.

conservative methods

The pathology of the hip joint is amenable to drug treatment in the early stages of development. This technique is aimed at restoring cartilage tissue, relieving swelling and pain.

Conservative treatment is based on the use of:

• Chondoprotectors - drugs aimed at restoring cartilage and articular tissues (Adequan, Glucosamine, Artra, Teraflex, Khionat, Chondrolon, Mukosat, Pentosan). The drugs are prescribed in the form of intravenous droppers, intramuscular injections, injections into the joint. Medicines are prescribed in combination or separately.
• Antispasmodics that relieve pain cider - No-shpa, Baralgin, Analgin.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs - Nimesulide, Rimadil.
• Mineral complexes based on chondroitins and glucosamine - Omega-3, Omega-6 complexes.
• Along with medicines, physiotherapy procedures are prescribed for the dog.

The most effective are:

• Paraffin therapy.
• Ozokerite.
• magnetic therapy.
• laser therapy.
• Massage.

Operational technique

Conservative treatment may not always give the proper result in the treatment of hip dysplasia (DJ). When the disease has reached the last stages, surgical intervention is necessary. The duration and complexity of the operation depends on the condition of the joint. Sometimes it is enough just to remove a small cartilage growth inside the joint.

If the joint is severely deformed, the following types of operations are used:

• Excision of the neck and head of the femur. The operation is quite traumatic, and the recovery period after it can be long. After excision, the joint is fully restored, and the animal can move freely without the use of any prostheses.
• osteotomy- dissection of the bone and adjustment of the location of the articular fossa. The joint is in the correct position. The operation is possible with an unaggravated form of the disease.
• Myoectomy- excision of the pectineal muscle during the growth period of the puppy. Practice shows that this technique does not give a complete cure, but it can significantly reduce lameness and restore the motor function of the joint. The indication for this type of surgical intervention is the ineffectiveness of conservative treatment with drugs. Myectomy gives the greatest effect at the age of the dog from 6 to 12 months.
• Resection arthroplasty– resection of the joint to reduce pain. This operation reduces the contact of the head of the joint with the glenoid cavity. After the operation, when moving, the friction of the head against the cavity stops, the dog ceases to experience pain. This type of surgical intervention is used for small breeds of dogs, weighing up to 20 kilograms. Resection arthroplasty is performed at any age of the animal.
• Endoprosthetics. It is used at the last stage of dysplasia. The dog's joint is replaced with an artificial one made of titanium alloy. Prosthetics is used if other methods of surgical intervention have failed or do not make sense. After completing the rehabilitation course, the dog continues to move without pain and lead a normal life. Muscle atrophy is a contraindication for arthroplasty, therefore, if there are indications for the installation of a prosthesis, it should be performed as soon as possible. From an economic and functional point of view, the installation of a prosthesis is recommended for dogs weighing more than 30 kilograms.

Prevention of dysplasia

The guarantee of the absence of hip dysplasia (HJD) in dogs is selective genetic prophylaxis. To obtain healthy offspring, it is necessary to mate healthy parents. Cynologists and breeders should be especially interested in solving problems to maintain the health of the breeds being bred.

However, parents can be carriers of the disease at the genetic level, so it is not always possible to exclude the possibility of its manifestation in offspring.

Owners of dogs of breeds predisposed to hip dysplasia (HJD) should especially carefully monitor the normalization of the animal's diet in order to prevent obesity. Excess weight in a dog is an increased load on the joints, therefore, a provoking factor in the development of dysplasia.

Attention. Reducing the calorie intake by reducing the amount of meat consumed and replacing it with carbohydrates is the wrong way. Such an approach will lead to the emergence of new health problems for the pet. The dog's diet should be calculated in such a way that it receives all the substances, vitamins and minerals necessary for growth and development.

The development of hip dysplasia (HJD) is influenced by the organization of physical activity. Harmful to the musculoskeletal system, insufficient and excessive physical activity. You can not give an increased load during the growth of the puppy. Harmful at any age continuous races for too long distances.

If dysplasia has already begun to develop, you should immediately limit physical activity, reduce the time of exercise and play with the animal. A sign of excessive stress on the body is the lameness of the dog after a walk. Experts recommend walking dogs with dysplasia on the lawn, excluding movement on asphalt. Swimming is useful for a dog, since in water the load on the joints is reduced, while the rest of the muscle groups receive the necessary load.

Cold and humidity are contraindicated for sick dogs, leading to an exacerbation of problems with the joints. Dogs with dysplasia should be kept in a warm, dry environment, otherwise they will suffer from aching joints and night pains.

Hip dysplasia in dogs, laid down at the genetic level, affects the animal sooner or later, despite the preventive measures taken. The owner's task is to help a sick animal and reduce pain in order to maintain the pet's motor activity.

Although dysplasia affects the dog's physical performance, and, alas, for the worse, it is still far from always possible, looking at the movements of the dog, even to assume that she has this defect. It happens that well-developed, trained muscles can hide the external manifestations of even a severe degree of dysplasia. Therefore, the diagnosis is made only by x-ray.

But here is the picture. We look at it - and what? - Yeah, this is the spine, but this looks like a pelvis, and here is the femur, and here is the head of this bone ... and some other dark and light spots. Everything seems to be in place, everything is fine.

But it’s actually normal or not, only a specially trained specialist can say. On the one hand, as one of the leading experts in the field of dog genetics, M.B. Willis, an Englishman who happily combines a veterinary geneticist, a cynologist and a dog breeder: "In order to read a picture, you do not need to study five years at a veterinary school." But "not all veterinarians know how to do it right."

Of course, if the acetabulum has the shape of a saucer, and instead of a rounded femoral head, some kind of stub sticks out, then you can immediately see - dysplasia. But dysplasia, as the name implies, is an malformed joint. And a manifestation of dysplasia is considered not only severe, but also any deviation from the norm.

What is a norm?

This problem was, in particular, devoted to the doctoral dissertation of the German researcher Victoria Richter. The results of her analysis of the structure of the pelvis in German shepherds, boxers, cocker spaniels, miniature poodles and dachshunds of all varieties (i.e. four breeds + dachshunds of three growth categories) clearly demonstrate that in addition all these breeds differ from each other not only outwardly, but also from within.

Dogs are neither mice nor rats, and therefore, as an object of mass laboratory research, fortunately, are expensive. (Although there was a fact - at the dawn of the study of the problem of dysplasia, the American organization Fidelko, which trains dogs for the service of guides for the blind and the police, gave a group of live dogs "for experiments". There were no "Greens" on them then). So, due to the inability to conduct detailed studies, scientists have been offering their schemes and approaches for detecting DTS for a long time.

In the end, we settled on two options for performing (there is also a 3rd additional option), and for establishing a diagnosis from a picture - on six criteria for assessing the hip joint. The names of these criteria sound intimidating, and I will not intimidate the reader with them, I will only say that there are several angles determined by a complex method, indices, characteristics of certain surfaces of the joint.

Gone are the days when a veterinarian squinted at a picture against the light and immediately made a diagnosis. Now a specialist veterinarian draws a picture using a special protractor, determines the angles. Using special tables, determines the scores for each of the criteria. And according to the sum of points, according to the number of signs deviating from the norm, he makes a diagnosis: the degree of dysplasia = A, B, C, D or E.

A is no dysplasia, B is a borderline case, suspected dysplasia, "almost normal", C is mild dysplasia, in some countries it is called "still allowed", D, E is moderate or severe dysplasia, respectively.

This is where you can breathe a sigh of relief. Finally, when making a diagnosis, accurate and completely objective parameters appear. Here we get the conclusion in our hands and read: the Norberg angle is 105 degrees, the penetration index of the head is 1.005, the tangential angle is ... Involuntarily you feel trust. But, unlike a dog, you don't have to relax. The fact is that in order to measure all these angles and indices using the protractor, you must first plot these angles on an x-ray. The starting point for this is the center of the femoral head.

But it has a spherical shape only theoretically. "In life" its form, even if it is rounded, is still very, very irregular. And it is not so easy to determine the geometric center of this sometimes intricate figure. It is necessary to draw axes of various bones of the pelvis and thigh, it is necessary to draw straight lines, which are continuations of various (curved!) lines of the contour of the joint. If there is an error in the definition of some point, then all further constructions will be distorted. Believe me, it's not all that easy.

This is where special training, extensive experience, and the ability to "see" are needed. A doctor, like any expert, needs it no less than an artist. Therefore, the diagnosis is entrusted to a few. In the RKF system, the final and officially recognized diagnosis is a diagnosis made by a doctor with the appropriate license, and we have few of them in Russia. To obtain such a conclusion, an x-ray is sent through the club to the Central Club in Moscow, and the owner of the dog will receive a response from the RKF with a doctor's opinion by mail.

But even the best doctor-expert can make a mistake if he receives an incorrectly taken picture for evaluation. I remember how ten years ago, looking at a picture of my dog ​​and remembering my modest institute knowledge in drawing and geometry, I pestered a radiologist: “Look how asymmetrical everything is here. Couldn’t this affect the diagnosis?” He looked at me like I was stupid. "No, it couldn't."

Alas, it could. The current Internet is full of examples of x-rays of the same dog taken on the same day. According to one picture, dysplasia appears, and according to the other, it is healthy. Or "suspicion of dysplasia" and then another diagnosis - a mild or moderate form of dysplasia. The difference between these shots is only in how the dog lies when shooting. Roughly speaking, the position of the pelvis and hind limbs is symmetrical or not. There are pictures like this on many websites.

One of the best articles on this subject is by renowned American dog handler Ed Frawley and is titled "The Importance of Proper Positioning in Hip X-rays". Despite the scary-sounding title, the article is written in a very simple and accessible way, because it is addressed to ordinary dog ​​breeders, that is, to you and me. It is beautifully illustrated and provided with explanations on how to determine whether the picture was taken correctly or not.

Apparently, getting a high-quality image is a worldwide problem. Many researchers believe that most of the errors in the diagnosis are due precisely to incorrectly performed dog laying. Moreover, the wrong position of the pelvis during the shooting worsens the diagnosis. Ed Frawley writes that they now have the Veterinary Orthopedic Organization (OFA) in the US starting to send back images due to poor positioning. Our experts also began to return pictures without evaluation, but with a recommendation to reshoot.

But even with experts, the situation is not so simple. Not only the incorrect position of the dog during the shooting, not only the shooting "without anesthesia", but also the mistake in reading the picture - this is one of the most serious problems in diagnosing dysplasia. At the Institute of Animal Husbandry and Domestic Animal Genetics of the Justus Liebig University of Giessen (Germany), a series of X-ray images were selected, three sets of copies of these images were made and sent to three highly qualified experts.

The results once again confirmed that the diagnosis of "dysplasia" even on x-rays, although, I repeat, this method is still considered the most accurate, is a very subjective matter. It would be nice if there were still discrepancies at the boundaries of the assessments: one expert says - "norm", another - "border case", or "light degree" - "average degree". But there were also discrepancies of the type: "mild degree of dysplasia" - "free from dysplasia." High agreement was only in the assessment of severe dysplasia.

In general, everything turned out in accordance with the theory of expert assessments. There is also this: in order to get the most accurate estimate, for example, the estimated time for completion of some complex work, they take the forecast of an optimistic expert, the forecast of a pessimistic expert. The most realistic term will be in the middle (of course, provided that both of these experts were quite competent).

In the Giessen University experiment, it was similar: a pessimistic expert and an optimistic expert, and also a moderate expert. His assessments have the most coincidences with colleagues. And besides, his diagnoses most of all "resonated" with the symptoms indicated by the owners of the dogs whose pictures were submitted for this experiment.

Here, it seems, is the solution to the problem. Testing Expert Advisors, choosing "moderate" and... go ahead. But it was not there. And some assessments of the "moderate" expert were more optimistic than those of the "optimist", and some were more negative than those of the "pessimist". What does it say? First of all, that when it comes to dysplasia, everything is not simple and everything is not unambiguous.

E. Alexandrova

Dysplasia in dogs often appears in puppies. Experienced breeders understand that the bulk of large thoroughbred dogs are prone to diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Animals with a powerful body build, large body weight and constantly feeling strong physical overload often have problems with the joints. Timely treatment of the disease can help eliminate severe consequences, especially immobility.

The main types of the disease

Multiple epiphyseal dysplasia. A very severe stage of joint damage. This is an abnormal condition of epiphyseal calcification, seen in hind limbs. The dog is exposed to the disease from birth. The joints may swell, and there is an unstable and wobbly gait. Puppies stop growing. This defect is considered hereditary, but its genetic origin has not yet been clearly investigated.

Elbow dysplasia. This type of disease also refers to the frequent deviation of the joints, which is associated with a defect in the formation of the elbow joint of the forelimbs. The disease can be traced as early as 4-6 months and can affect both 2 and 1 paw. Most of all, the underdevelopment of the elbow joint in dogs is removed by the method of surgical intervention and drug treatment, however, sick individuals are not allowed to breed after recovery. This defect has a genetic origin.

Dysplasia of the hip joint. It creates asymmetry of the body. For example, the chest is extensive and large, and the pelvis is narrow, the hind legs are poorly formed. When moving, the dog transfers mass and load to the front part of the body, so this part is much more developed. It is important to note that at a young age the body can compensate for the deficiency by deposition of new matter on the bones, but with old age the disease is aggravated. For this reason, it is important to carry out complex therapy and maintenance.

Hip dysplasia in dogs occurs in dogs of all breeds, including mixed breeds. The disease strikes more often large breeds than small ones. Certain breeds are genetically most susceptible to hip instability and are more likely to show symptoms of hip dysplasia than others.

Symptoms of dysplasia in dogs

Often the disease is detected when the animal is a year or a year and a half old. And this is natural, since it is during this period that the dog grows rapidly and accumulates mass. If treatment is not started on time, this will lead to subsequent lameness, which may not be expressed immediately.

You need to carefully monitor the puppy: when he prefers to lie with his hind limbs spread out to the sides and takes this position often, he has dysplasia. In addition, you need to be on the alert when the dog quickly gets tired on a walk or chases, pushing off at the same time with 2 paws from behind.

What are the symptoms of dysplasia to look out for:

• lameness on 1 or both hind legs;
• when moving, the dog sways;
• difficulty getting up;
• unnatural rotation of the hind legs if the dog is on its stomach;
• severe fatigue, frequent suspensions;
• paws swell;
• when pressing on the joints - unhealthy feelings, although when walking or running they may not be;
• the front part is more massive, stronger, while the back part is smaller and weaker.

If a dog shows signs of dysplasia, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Ignoring the treatment will cause the creature to be unable to move after a certain period of time and will feel tormented.

Joint dysplasia in young dogs occurs without signs, they are expressed much later. It is necessary to focus on the fact that the puppy does not want to move on the slippery floor and prefers to crawl. In the neglected stage of the disease, the dog may become hostile due to regularly felt painful sensations.

Diagnostics

The main diagnostic method is the Ortolani dysplasia test, which is performed under anesthesia, since the doctor who performs it is required to rapidly rotate the hip joint of the dog, and this can cause severe pain. X-ray examination, in the diagnosis of hip dysplasia in dogs, is considered simply a necessary diagnostic tool. It makes it possible to clearly see how pronounced the asymmetry of the joints is. Allows you to set the level of impact of asymmetry on the spinal cord of the dog.

The veterinary doctor takes a urine sample for examination and blood. A dog's parents may not have hip dysplasia, but still have future generations with the disease. This is a very common manifestation. The earlier a disease is diagnosed, the more alternatives are available for its therapy. This is important primarily because the longer the disease is not examined, the huge negative painful changes the dog's joints undergo. The level of their degeneration is increasing.

A test for dysplasia will help determine the diagnosis

To establish a diagnosis of dysplasia, it is necessary to undergo an appropriate analysis - an X-ray study, based on the results of the image of which the degree of formation of dysplasia in the dog is put.

The test for dysplasia is an x-ray study of the hip and elbow joints, and in addition, a further study of the acquired photos of dysplasia (images) and a conclusion about the stage of the disease or its absence. Since most often in dogs there is an underdevelopment of the hip joints, therefore, let's talk about a test for abnormal development in dogs of this type.

The test for hip dysplasia is performed "in stretch". Of course, in order for an x-ray for dysplasia in dogs to be taken in accordance with the rules, it is necessary to correctly place the animal on the x-ray table. The animal is placed on its back vertically to the plane of the table, that is, the body of the dog does not have to be inclined either to the left side or to the right side. In this case, the chest should be fixed in an immobilized position.

The pelvis is placed parallel to the plane of the table, observing the exactly symmetrical position of its left and right sides in relation to the main axis. The kneecaps of the animal must be in the upper average state, that is, they must be clearly visible in the photo. Malformed development in dogs. In a similar way, the animal is "stretched" by the hind limbs, which must be rotated 15 degrees.

After that, a direct test for dysplasia in dogs is performed. After extracting the image, the veterinarian checks the equality of the values ​​​​and the symmetry of the location of the pelvic bones. The veterinarian, who bears absolute responsibility for the procedure for performing the test, is obliged to affix an indelible marking on the animal’s identification specifically on the photo, that is, the dog’s brand number. It should be emphasized that during the period of the test for dysplasia, the dog must be at least 12 months old. The picture indicates:

• the name of the animal;
• stamp number;
• date of birth;
• breed;
• date of shooting;
• marks "left" and "right";
• address and owner's name.

A doctor who performs a test for abnormal development in a dog is obliged to control the quality of the image and the accuracy of the position of the skeletal system. When there are pathologies or "doubtful" circumstances, then the veterinarian should bring the owner up to date. He can pre-set the conclusion based on the results of the picture. The conclusion contains the establishment of one of the stages of the position of the thigh:

• stage I or A: no indicators of abnormal development;
• stage II, or B: average normal position;
• stage III or C: mild;
• stage IV, or D. medium.

Therapy for joint dysplasia

Immediately it should be noted that the treatment of abnormalities in the structure of the joints in animals does not provide a 100% result. Treatment of dysplasia in dogs is carried out with the use of chondroprotectors, which are included by injection into the vein or joints of the animal. In no case do you need to carry out the procedure yourself. This must be done exclusively by the doctor. When an abnormal development is found in a pet, it will be necessary to apply maximum efforts so that he lives longer without pain and difficulties.

The use of various kinds of substances, including those with analgesic effects, should be used. In order to remove the pain syndrome, veterinarians often determine Quadrisol-5, eliminate the acute inflammatory process - Phenylbutazone, and in order to stop the destruction processes - Stride. Rimadil can help eliminate or reduce lameness. Also, the treatment includes taking vitamins, proper nutrition and a regimen of physical activity.

With neglected painful processes, veterinarians refer the dog for surgery. The type of operation is determined after a general diagnosis, it can be:

1. Myectomy of the pectineus muscle. It is not considered a difficult operation, during which a dissection of the comb muscle of the hip joint is performed. This reduces pain associated with physical activity and pressure on the affected joint. Such manipulation is determined exclusively by young animals in order to stabilize their position.
2. Resection of the femoral head. This procedure is also called resection arthroplasty. It contains the removal of the head of the hip bone, and the fixation of the limb is performed thanks to a special ligament. After such an intervention, motor function is preserved only in not very large pets, whose weight does not exceed 15 kilograms. For this reason, its implementation in representatives of large and huge breeds will not provide a predictable outcome.
3. The method of triple pelvic osteotomy is a complex operation. The doctor dissects the bone, then it is deployed in a similar way so that it is in closer contact with the hip joint. An auxiliary plate is used to strengthen the bone. This method is used to cure only young animals.
4. Method of interacetabular osteotomy. The method consists in removing the wedge-shaped part of the neck. The end, which fits more tightly into the articular notch, is fixed with a plate.
5. Joint change. The procedure is implemented in hospitals with specialized equipment, devices and prostheses. The procedure consists in the absolute removal of the diseased joint and its replacement with a new one. This surgical intervention provides good results and in the majority of situations the dog begins to live fully.

The owner of the dog must monitor the weight of the pet. Dogs that are at risk for the disease or have already been diagnosed with the disease should limit exercise. Long runs, active games with jumps can cause an intensive formation of pathology and a shift for the worse in the state. However, completely eliminate physical. activity is not needed.

Up to six months, active overloads are not recommended, but the animal can swim. The disease will require a special careful attitude towards the pupil, and it depends only on the owner to what extent the life of the dog will be of high quality and long without pain and torment.

About the author: Ekaterina Alekseevna Soforova

The diagnosis of hip dysplasia in dogs does not sound promising. The disease adversely affects the mobility of animals, causes pain and discomfort. The disease is especially susceptible to dogs with a large weight and large physique, which experience intense physical exertion.

Dysplasia in dogs - symptoms

If there is a genetic predisposition, the disease can overtake the animal at an early age. Cases when observed in six-month-old puppies are not uncommon. Improper fit of the head of the bone to the articular cavity can be suspected by the nature of the movements of the dog and its changed habits. Be sure to take your pet to the veterinarian if:

• the dog began to limp and sway when walking;
• incorrectly places its paws, when running it is repelled by both hind limbs;
• makes frequent pauses for rest;
• movements become constrained - it is difficult for the dog to move up the stairs, get up from the floor, follow commands;
• the body gradually becomes asymmetrical - a massive chest and forelimbs clearly stand out against the background of a narrow pelvis and atrophied muscles of the hind legs;
• there is swelling and swelling of the joint;
• The dog has pain on touch.

Dysplasia in dogs - causes

Joint problems can be caused by many factors. Owners should be especially vigilant if the puppy's parents suffered from this disease. Joint dysplasia in dogs is not considered a congenital disease; the following can become a trigger for the development of pathology:

• malnutrition with an excess of protein foods;
• feeding with low-quality feed;
• excessive ingestion of calcium and phosphorus;
• exhausting loads;
• obesity;
• sedentary lifestyle;
• past trauma to the limbs.

Diagnosis of dysplasia in dogs

Timely detection of the disease is the guarantor of a speedy recovery and the return of the pet to a full life. Therefore, at the first suspicion, it is necessary to undergo a full examination. The preliminary diagnosis is dysplasia of the hind limbs in dogs, a qualified specialist makes immediately after the examination. The veterinarian conducts a mobility test, feels the limbs - this information is enough for him to set the algorithm for further actions.

X-rays are additionally taken to determine the degree of hip dysplasia in dogs and prescribe treatment. The image provides complete information about the nature of the joint damage and helps determine the optimal therapy. In modern, well-equipped clinics, arthroscopy is performed for a complete diagnosis of dogs. This is an expensive but informative procedure that allows you to study the structure of cartilage tissue and the degree of its damage.

Testing for dysplasia in dogs

In order to prevent the disease, owners of dogs of large breeds try to get tested for dysplasia in advance. As practice shows, the first signs of the disease can appear at the age of 2-9 months. However, experts do not recommend jumping to conclusions, since disorders in puppies can be temporary, associated with intense and uneven growth.

Hip dysplasia in dogs may not be definitively diagnosed until 9-18 months of age (depending on height and breed). This does not apply to hereditary pathologies that are clearly visible when the puppy reaches 4 months. The test for dysplasia is a necessary official document for dogs applying for breeding. Although the absence of a disease in parents is not considered a guarantee that puppies will not be prone to developing pathology.

X-ray diagnosis of hip dysplasia in dogs

Hip dysplasia in dogs is diagnosed by X-ray and a hypermobility test. Both the first and second procedures are performed under general anesthesia. Therefore, before conducting the study, it is necessary to consult a cardiologist and an anesthesiologist. Full sedation of the dog ensures its correct position and, as a result, obtaining high-quality reliable images in all necessary projections. After all, even the most calm and obedient animal will strain the muscles and ligaments, which will prevent the correct placement of the articular surfaces.

Dysplasia in dogs - how to determine at home?

It is problematic at first to suspect an ailment by characteristic symptoms. Joint dysplasia in dogs is determined with the naked eye only in advanced stages, when the animal experiences severe discomfort and pain. This condition is accompanied by:

• wrong position;
• lameness or "rabbit" gait;
• intolerance to physical activity;
• aggressive behavior, more often when touched.

Degrees of dysplasia in dogs

By the way dysplasia manifests itself in dogs, one can judge the degree of development of the disease. According to the classification of the International Canine Federation, the disease has several stages of development:

• A- absence of pathology;
• IN- borderline condition, predisposition to the development of the disease is present;
• WITH- mild degree - the dog is recommended for exclusion from breeding;
• D– average degree;
• E- severe dysplasia - accompanied by serious impairment of mobility.

Prevention of dysplasia in dogs

A radical measure to prevent the development of the disease in dogs - the exclusion from breeding individuals with this disease, gives its results. However, heredity is far from the only factor that can provoke the development of the disease. Even animals with excellent pedigree can be susceptible to the disease. Joint dysplasia in dogs often develops as a result of external factors. To prevent potential problems, hosts should remember that:

• a puppy whose joints and muscle corset are not yet formed should not be subjected to strong physical exertion. Toddlers are contraindicated - jumping from a great height, gravity, running long distances;
• the pet must walk and move, lack of activity is fraught with underdevelopment of the acetabulum;
• you need to feed the animal in moderation, extra pounds are not an indicator of love, but the risk of developing many diseases, including hip dysplasia in dogs;
• Adding supplements to your pet's diet should be done carefully. This is especially true for specialized feed.

Hip Dysplasia in Dogs - Treatment

It is possible to correct the development of dysplasia and provide the animal with a decent quality of life by conservative and surgical methods. Traditional therapy includes:

• drug treatment using chondroprojectors, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, nutritional supplements;
• adherence to a special diet (for obesity);
• physiotherapeutic procedures (magnetic, laser therapy, ozocerite, massages).

The answer to the question of how to treat dysplasia in dogs includes surgical methods. Depending on the individual characteristics of the four-legged patient, surgeons can perform:

• myectomy of the pectineus muscle;
• resection arthroplasty;
• pelvic osteotomy;
• complete joint replacement.

Hip dysplasia is a genetic disorder that occurs when your dog's hip is misaligned. Such a disease can lead to arthritis because the misalignment of the hips causes the bones to rub against each other. Hip dysplasia is more common in large dog breeds, and usually occurs in older dogs, although some puppies and young dogs may also have the condition. There are general signs of the disease in all dogs, as well as specific changes in your older dog's lifestyle. If you are concerned that your puppy has hip dysplasia, go to step 1 for more information.

Steps

Presence of signs of joint dysplasia in older dogs

Watch your dog as he moves around and see if he jumps "like a rabbit". Dogs that have sore hips have shortened strides and tend to take their hind legs further forward under their belly. This can lead to "bunny hopping", which means your dog keeps his hind legs together and drags them like a rabbit when he walks. Watch the dog, the main signs are: he :

• Hips as if articulated when the dog walks.
• Links her hind legs together so that when she walks, her hind legs hop "like a rabbit".
• Limps or has other abnormal movements.
• General state.

1. See if your dog is having a hard time getting up or lying down. Hip dysplasia pain can worsen even more if your dog remains at rest. This is especially true in the morning after your dog has slept all night. In this regard, you may notice that your dog:

   • Hesitating to lie down if she got up.
   • Difficulty getting up when lying down.
   • Seems tougher in the morning or when the weather is cold.

2. Monitor your dog's activity and see if it decreases. Reduced amount of physical activity is one of the most common signs of pain caused by hip dysplasia. All dogs become slower with age, but a decrease in activity should not occur until your dog is older. Unless your dog is sick or overweight, he should maintain roughly the same levels of activity as he would in his adult years. Look at:

   • Lack of interest in running or doing other physical activities with you.
   • Lies, but does not run in the yard.
   • When he plays, he gets tired faster.
   • Prefers to sit rather than stand and walk when on a leash.

3. Listen for the noise - the sound of a click when your dog moves. The term "creaking of the bones" can be applied to a dog with hip dysplasia. You may have noticed a clicking sound when your dog moves. These are her bones. Listen to this noise. when:

   • Your dog should get up after lying down for a while.
   • Walks.
   • Movement.

4. Check if your dog is ready to climb up the stairs. You may notice that your dog is suddenly lifting more heavily, or is hesitant to climb stairs, although he had no difficulty with this before. This is because hip dysplasia causes heaviness in your dog's legs to climb stairs or walk down slopes, as his hind legs are stiff and he cannot control them as well as use them.

5. Check your dog for rashes caused by overgrooming. Inactive dogs that cannot move are afraid of getting bored. To pass the time, they tend to lick themselves more than usual. If you notice that your dog spends more time washing himself, get him checked for rashes or hair loss, as both of these things can be caused by over grooming. In particular, check:

   • Your dog's thighs.
   • Sides of your dog.
   • Your dog's legs.

6. Look for pressure calluses and sores on your dog's body. Inactive dogs often develop pressure sores or calluses in areas on the body that have the most pressure and minimal padding. This problem becomes even worse if the dog is constantly lying on the hard surface. Check with your dog:

   • Elbows.
   • Hips.
   • Shoulders.

7. Feel your dog's back legs to see if he has lost muscle mass. If your dog stops using his hind legs, it is likely that he has lost some of the muscle mass in his hind legs. This condition is called atrophy. Feel your dog's back legs for things like:

   • The dog is able to feel its bones more easily.
   • Feel less muscle.
   • Sunken thighs.

8. See if your puppy or young dog is hesitant to jump on things. If your puppy has hip dysplasia, he will most likely avoid bouncing on soft sofas, knees, etc. This is because his hind legs are not as strong as his front legs and this can prevent him from applying enough force to his hind legs to help himself jump onto things.

   • Pat the couch next to you. If your puppy wants to jump up but doesn't, or tries and then complains of pain, he may have hip dysplasia.

9. Watch the young dog to see if he has a wobbly, unsteady gait. As mentioned above, puppies and young dogs that have hip dysplasia have a harder time getting around than other dogs. This can cause your dog to develop an unsteady walk, which can be described as:

   • Swinging.
   • Weaving.
   • Tipping violently.

10. See how your puppy is standing and whether he is putting more weight on his front legs. Puppies and young dogs with hip dysplasia tend to stand with their hind legs slightly forward so that their front legs can support more weight. This can result in the forearms being much more developed than their hind legs. When the puppy is standing:

    • Check if his hind legs are pressed forward a little.
    • Feel his forearms, they may be more muscular, compared to the hind legs, which may be more bony.

Preventing hip dysplasia from progressing

1. Take your dog to the vet for a checkup if you notice signs of hip dysplasia. Talk to your veterinarian right away and have your dog examined. There are ways to prevent hip dysplasia from getting worse, as well as nutritional supplements and medications to relieve your dog of the pain caused by hip dysplasia.

   • Talk to your veterinarian about giving your dog supplements before giving her medication. Some natural supplements can help your dog regain bone strength. These supplements include omega-3s, antioxidants, and joint supplements.
   • Your veterinarian may prescribe medication for your dog. Make sure you know when and how often your dog should take them.