If you are a large breed dog owner, you’ve probably familiar with the term ‘hip dysplasia’. In this article, we will answer the most common questions about diagnostics and treatment of hip dysplasia in dogs.
What is Shiba Inu hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia in Shibas is a common health issue, together with allergies, cataracts and a luxating patella. It is a skeletal condition that occurs when a dog’s hip joint doesn’t align well with the socket. Since the hip is a ball-and-socket joint, both of these components need to grow at the same rate. If that’s not the case, they start to rub instead of sliding smoothly. As a result, the joint becomes loose, and unstable and eventually loses its function.
The number one factor that leads to the development of hip dysplasia in Shiba Inus is genetics. It is a hereditary condition that mostly affects larger dogs, but it can occur in smaller breeds as well. This genetic predisposition can be amplified by a dog’s improper weight and nutrition, excessive growth rate, and even types of exercise. For instance, Shiba Inu training that is too intense can exacerbate a pre-existing condition or even cause hip dysplasia.
How to know if my Shiba Inu has hip dysplasia?
Now that we’ve explained the etiology of hip dysplasia in dogs, let’s have a closer look at its symptoms. Some dogs show signs of hip dysplasia at a very young age (4 months old), while others develop it as seniors, together with osteoarthritis. The symptoms may vary depending on the level of inflammation as well as the duration and severity of the disease.
Some of the symptoms that appear in juvenile dogs are:
- shifting of weight to front legs
- limping in one or both of the back legs
- hopping while holding its back legs together
- snapping hip sound while moving
Mature dogs show similar symptoms:
- lameness in the back legs
- loss of thigh muscle mass
- decreased range of motion
- stiffness and limping
What is common for both young and adult dogs is pain and discomfort. It’s worth mentioning that hip dysplasia in Shiba Inus doesn’t always show right away. They can develop the clinical condition as puppies and live without outward symptoms for many years.
In order to diagnose hip dysplasia, your veterinarian will perform a physical exam. The doctor will test your pet’s joint looseness by manipulating its hind legs. The final diagnosis will come after a blood test and X-rays. Depending on the severity of the disease, you will be introduced to possible treatment options.
How to take care of a Shiba Inu with hip dysplasia?
There are several options to treat hip dysplasia in Shibas. The non-surgical method includes:
- physical therapy
- weight reduction – to lower the pressure on your dog’s joints
- anti-inflammatory medications
- joint supplements
These treating methods are convenient for older dogs as well as those who can’t undergo surgery for any reason. Glucosamine and chondroitin are supplements commonly used to prevent cartilage breakdown in the joint. As for medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are efficient in reducing pain but come with noteworthy side effects.
When it comes to surgical procedures, the most common are:
- total hip replacement
- femoral head ostectomy
Veterinarians usually recommend surgery for young dogs, as it provides long-term relief and enables them to live a healthy and active life.
How to prevent your Shiba Inu from hip dysplasia?
Even though hip dysplasia is in most cases a hereditary condition, it can also be acquired by exposing a dog to heavy training sessions. To prevent your pooch suffering from this illness, it’s extremely important to include Chondroitin and Glucosamine supplements into his diet. They improve mobility and keep the cartilage strong.
Another important tip is to buy your Shiba a quality dog bed. Shiba Inu bed should be made of memory foam that will shape according to your dog’s body. Besides, observe your pet’s sleeping habit so you can determine whether he needs a bed with or without elevated edges.
