Hip dysplasia (HD for short) is a skeletal change that particularly affects large and heavy dogs. This is a deformation of the acetabulum and the head of the femur (thigh head). The bones of this joint should fit together snugly and the socket should be large enough to give the femoral head enough support. If this is not the case, one speaks of HD in various degrees of severity. This change leads to uneven wear and tear over the course of the dog's life, which has an unfavorable effect on the cartilage layer, which becomes thinner and thinner over time. In the worst case, the bones or cartilage can splinter and remain very painful in the joint capsule if they are not surgically removed. Typical signs of wear and tear in the hip usually show up as abrasion and thinning of the cartilage layer in older dogs. In heavy and large dogs, this wear and tear on the joints and cartilage progresses more quickly. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for puppies to be affected by this bone disease.
Where does hip dysplasia come from?
Hip dysplasia can be genetic, i.e. hereditary. Joint diseases can be inherited, especially in large and heavy dogs. This predisposition appears in some breeding lines, so that inheritance can take place. It is therefore important to check dogs that are going to be bred by means of an X-ray test and to exclude them from breeding if the severity is higher.
Diet also influences the course of the disease, but is not the cause of HD. A faulty or inadequate diet can have an unfavorable effect in puppyhood, when the skeleton develops disproportionately to the weight. If the puppy grows up too quickly due to excessive energy intake, the skeleton can develop incorrectly. The need for calcium and phosphorus is increased during the development phase and the calcium-phosphorus ratio is crucial. An undersupply of both minerals results in soft and unstable bones. Mineral overdosing can often be observed with commercial feeds. This leads to excessive storage of both minerals and, as a result, to brittle bones.
The third factor that has an unfavorable influence on HD is recurring severe overloading of the musculoskeletal system in the early stages of the dog's development. Unfortunately, even a one-time heavy overload can lead to a change in the joint socket.
The more frequently the dog is exposed to strong movements, the faster its hip wears out.
How to recognize hip dysplasia
HD is painful, causing the dog to show increasing restriction of movement. Gait becomes unstable, dogs walk on overdrive and have difficulty getting up and lying down. It is also typical that after the difficult process of getting up and a warm-up period, the symptoms subside. Unfortunately, HD is often accepted as a sign of aging without being properly treated. HD is not curable, it can only be positively influenced and delayed as early as possible and thus permanent lameness of the dog.
In particularly severe cases, surgery is the only way to ensure a carefree life for the dog. There are several surgical options including an artificial hip joint.
Severity and classification of the HD
HD is divided into five different grades (A-E) and forms depending on the severity.
In addition, there is a separate assessment such as HD-A1 or HD-A2 for more precise classification.
HD-A = HD freeHD-B = transition typeHD-C = HD mildHD-D = HD moderateHD-E = HD high-grade
The X-ray image (under anesthesia) is decisive for the assessment
The Norberg angle is still the most commonly used to estimate the severity of hip dysplasia. (Image: Rottweiler)
The yellow legs indicate the minimum threshold for HD freedom, the blue legs indicate the actual angle. The blue circle marks the femoral head.
Responsibility lies in the hands of breeders and puppy buyers
So that hip dysplasia is not passed on, breeders in breed clubs are required to have a breed x-ray for breeding approval. Dogs with a pre-existing condition will be excluded from breeding. The X-ray examination usually takes place at the Großspitz from about the 13th-15th year of life. Month of life under anesthesia to assess the condition and looseness of the hip.
By selecting unsuitable dogs, responsible breeders make an important contribution in the fight against hip dysplasia.
This check is also interesting for the owner who does not want to go into breeding, as this is the only way he can get an idea of the health of his animal and, if necessary, take measures at an early stage.
Sources: https://www.tierklinik.de/
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