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German Shepherds are famous for their high intelligence, hardworking nature, and loyalty. This explains why they are often used as guides, search-and-rescue dogs in police or military, and therapy. German Shepherds are also known as detecting dogs that are capable of identifying explosives and narcotics.
Sadly, these brave detecting dogs are often prone to hip problems or hip dysplasia, mostly due to genetics and selective breeding traits. It is common among these intelligent dog breeds, causing discomfort in walking and running, thus hampering their quality of life. This article will focus on understanding the probable reasons affecting the hip health of German Shepherds.
What is Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is a skeletal issue that affects hip joint health. It inhibits the growth of the ball (femoral head) and the socket (acetabulum) of the bones at the same time and, hence, do not fit together in the correct position. As a result, it may cause a shallow hip socket or a loosened joint, which leads to arthritis in dogs like German Shepherds over time.
German Shepherd hip dysplasia is a condition that tends to make dogs weak over time, as it affects the proper formation and functioning of the hip joints. This skeletal condition is more common among large breed dogs, like German Shepherds. Since the ball and the socket do not fit each other correctly, it leads to instability and hampered movement and may eventually result in arthritis.
Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia in German Shepherds
It’s crucial to recognize the early signs of hip dysplasia to provide your dogs with the right treatment promptly. Here are some common signs and symptoms of hip dysplasia in German Shepherds that may vary based on the condition’s severity and the dog’s age.
In Puppies
Some German Shepherd puppies might start showing early signs of hip problems as early as when they are just four months old. These might include:
- Difficulty getting up from the lying or sitting position
- Bunny hopping while running
- Reluctance to jump, climb the stairs, or participate in vigorous games and activities.
- Limping or muscle stiffness after play activities
In Adults
In adult German Shepherds, these signs are more noticeable as the dog’s joint degeneration progresses and it starts aging. Some of these hip dysplasia symptoms include:
- Unsteady gait or swaying
- Decreased play or exercise activities
- Limping or stiffness, especially after laying down or exercise
- Limited motion or movement in the hip joints
- Hip pain during movement or when touched
If the condition is undetected or left untreated for a long time, it may lead to arthritis, which impacts your dog’s companion’s quality of life. Due to gradual degeneration of the hip joints, it may result in immobility, chronic pain, and loss of function. Therefore, it’s our responsibility to ensure that the dog’s activity levels and energies remain for many more years.
Causes of German Shepherd Hip Dysplasia
Several factors may be responsible for hip dysplasia in German Shepherds. We must understand each of these causes and minimize the risks of more severe conditions like arthritis.
1. Genetic Factors
Genetics is the culprit of many health conditions, whether in humans or dogs. In German Shepherds, genetics is often a major contributing factor causing hip problems. This condition is caused by a combination of numerous genes rather than a single gene mutation. Certain breeding practices might lead to the prevalence of German Shepherd hip dysplasia.
Therefore, breeders are advised to follow healthy tips while practicing selective breeding of dogs. German Shepherds are usually bred to have sloped hindquarters for the benefit of detecting criminal activities and illegal objects. It may be a major cause of hip joint issues in these selectively bred dogs.
2. Nutritional Factors
A healthy diet becomes crucial to maintain the overall health of these detective dogs, including their hip joint health. Owners or breeders must avoid overfeeding German Shepherd, as it may lead to obesity and rapid growth, both of which are the contributing factors of hip dysplasia. Therefore, following a well-balanced diet for dogs is necessary to ensure that these breeds get a good balance between calories and nutrients. It promotes healthy joint development and body weight.
3. Environmental Factors
Multiple environmental factors, like living conditions and exercise, can cause hip dysplasia development in German Shepherds. For example, engaging in rigorous exercise or play activities during their crucial stages of growth can lead to early joint degeneration.
This issue may also result from traumatic fractures during excessive physical activities or accidents. On the other hand, a lack of physical activity may cause the muscles to weaken. Therefore, they may fail to provide adequate support to the hip joints, thus hampering mobility.
4. Development and Growth
During the German Shepherds’ vital growth and development stage, their hip joints undergo several changes that can cause hip dysplasia. The rapid development and growth of these dog breeds during their first year of life can strain their hip joints. Therefore, breeders and owners are recommended to monitor their German Shepherds’ activity levels and developmental milestones as per their age. It can significantly reduce the risks of developing hip dysplasia.
Diagnosis and Treatment of German Shepherd Hip Dysplasia
If you notice the early signs and symptoms of hip joint problems in your German Shepherd, see the veterinarian immediately. They will conduct a series of examinations and diagnostics to determine the severity of this skeletal condition. The vet may perform a diagnosis using one or more of these techniques.
- Physical examination
- Imaging and X-rays
- Veterinarian expertise
Based on the findings of the diagnosis, the vet will now decide upon the best treatment method for your furry member. After discussing with you, the veterinary expert may recommend one of these treatment procedures, depending on your budget and personal preferences.
- Non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, weight management, and supplementation and medication.
- Surgical treatment methods, like hip replacement, Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO), or Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO).
In extreme cases, your vet might prescribe using a dog wheelchair for improved mobility.
conclusion
In conclusion, German Shepherds, the rough and tough dog breeds with exceptional intelligence, need the care and treatment they deserve if they develop hip joint problems. It’s our responsibility to provide them with a better quality of life and stay active for a major portion of their lives. We hope the article will help you identify the probable causes of hip dysplasia in your pet (if you notice the signs and symptoms) and make the best treatment decisions for your dog.
