Jan
30
How do I know if my 14-year-old dog has hip dysplasia?
ByGolden Retriever-Aussie shepherd mix. She kind of drags her leg when she tries to walk up a curb. She still likes to go for walks although she doesn’t walk as far or as fast. Is there any outward sign that signifies my dog has arthritis or some other joint problem?
Dysplasia usually shows up within the first 3-4 years of a dogs life. Judging by her age it is probably arthritis. There are alot of good medications out there that can help her live out her life pain-free. Or she could just be slowing down, she is a senior citizen and lots of short walks would be better than one big walk every day. But it would be best to talk to your vet.
5 Comments
February 1st, 2010 at 7:18 am
No, only your vet can say for sure. They will x-ray your dogs hips. It is probably arthritis because of her age. Have her checked by a vet.
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February 1st, 2010 at 8:08 am
She has a problem walking but she has already out lived most dogs. Give her pain pills
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February 1st, 2010 at 8:45 am
Dysplasia usually shows up within the first 3-4 years of a dogs life. Judging by her age it is probably arthritis. There are alot of good medications out there that can help her live out her life pain-free. Or she could just be slowing down, she is a senior citizen and lots of short walks would be better than one big walk every day. But it would be best to talk to your vet.
References :
February 1st, 2010 at 9:32 am
It sounds more like arthritis than dysplasia. Your vet would tell you more exactly. Rymadil is a great remedy for the arthritis pain, and it comes in chewable tablets, so the dogs will eat them gladly. See your vet before you give him Rymadil, to confirm on this diagnosis.
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February 1st, 2010 at 9:46 am
Your dog could have an advanced form of hip dysplasia which has developed in to degenerative joint disease. Your dog also could have a a neurological problem such as a protruding disc or other neurological diseases. The best thing to do as mentioned by a previous answerer would be to have your dog hips x-rayed Also it would be good to have your dog examined by your veterinarian and based on the physical exam it can be determined whether your dog’s problem is a orthopedic (bone problem) or a neurologic problem.
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I am a veterinarian student