Signs of Hip Dysplasia and other
Hip Problems in dogs

One of the most common reasons a dog would require FHO surgery is Hip Dysplasia. Hip Dysplasia in dogs can be a very painful and debilitating disease. Many pet owners feel that if their pet is not crying out then their dog is not in pain. This is simply not the case. Dogs do not show pain like humans. They are very rarely verbal about the pain they are experiencing but they may show it in many other ways.

It is common for dogs to display one or more signs of hip dysplasia, which you will learn about below. Often times pet owners simply think that when they see their dogs slowing down it is just normal signs of getting older. What they don't realize is that if it is due to orthopedic issues they are most likely suffering with some degree of chronic pain. You may find that your dog is sleeping more and does not want to get out bed. Often dogs will stand with their hind legs closer together to take the weight off of them or with their front legs wider apart. Dogs that "bunny hop" while running can also be one of the signs of hip dysplasia. In younger dogs, this is a tell tale sign that they have hip dysplasia. If their joints are bothering them, they may also start to lick at them, which is their way of trying to pacify the pain. Other signs maybe reluctance to go on walks, avoiding stairs or jumping in the car or up on the couch or bed. One of the most common signs of hip dysplasia is that your dog is will begin to show a very slight limp in one or both hind legs.

Dogs suffering from Legg Perthes disease will also start to develop lameness in one or both of their hind legs. These symptoms usually begin when the dog is less than one year of age. Other signs are limping, pain when trying to manipulate the hind legs, muscle atrophy, licking the hip joint, weakness, reluctance to play, run or jump, low tolerance to exercise and clicking of the hip joint.

In part, any of the above listed signs of hip dysplasia or Legg Perthes Disease in dogs often times start very mild at first and can be difficult to really notice early on. Don't let this fool you. Also remember even mild signs of lameness means some degree of pain for your dog. If you notice any of these signs please contact your veterinarian for an appointment so that they can do a full physical exam and possibly x-rays if needed.