Hip dysplasia is often seen in larger dog breeds, although the condition may occur in smaller breeds too. To understand how hip dysplasia develops, you need to learn more about how the hip joint is designed. The hip joint in a dog is a type of ball and socket joint. When hip dysplasia is noted, it is because the joint has not formed properly. As a result, it tends to rub or grind rather than slide easily or smoothly. With the progression of time, the joint cannot function at all.
Therefore, pet health care in Timonium, MD places an emphasis on treating hip dysplasia. This condition, which is hereditary, is regularly found in the following large dog breeds:
German shepherds
Labrador retrievers
Great Danes
St. Bernards
The Importance of Proper Nutrition
Hip dysplasia may become more pronounced if a dog is heavy or grows excessively. That is why pet health care experts recommend special dietary requirements for large breed puppies. Specialized puppy foods assist in preventing excessive growth – growth that can lead to disorders such as hip dysplasia. Proper nutrition when a dog is young can also help prevent it from acquiring other joint conditions that limit his or her movement.
Talk to Your Vet about an Exercise Regimen
When the growth of a dog is slowed, the joints can form without unnecessary strain. Too much exercise or too little activity can also cause a dog to develop hip dysplasia. Therefore, it is helpful to confer with your pet health care provider about a recommended exercise program for your pet.
Obesity can place a lot of strain on a canine’s joints, which can lead to hip dysplasia or make a current condition worse. Therefore, both diet and exercise play a part in keeping a dog healthy and free of symptoms associated with all types of joint conditions.
A Better Quality of Life
If you would like to learn more about canine joint disorders, click here for further details. Knowing these details can assist you in providing your pet with a better quality of life.
