Hip dysplasia is a complex problem which has troubled the German Shepherd breed a long time.

- the German Shepherd included.

To better understand what dysplasia is in relationship to the hip joint, and how to treat it once the dog has it, we must have some understanding of the basics of this debilitating condition.

Best described, dysplasia is caused whenever a laxity (or looseness) occurs in the joint between the femur and pelvis. Over time this looseness causes damage to the femoral head(ball) and to the acetabulum (socket) so that they do not fit properly and pain is caused as a result.

Dysplastic GSD hip joint

This damage then causes arthritic changes in the joint which often reduces the range of motion and causes pain and inflammation. This often causes the dog pain in the morning when trying to rise, causes difficulty in even small leaps and sometimes may even cause weight loss or decreased appetite.

The inheritance of “good” or “bad” hips is dependent on many genes and is truly too complex an issue to be discussed in this short introductory article. In many cases, however, the origin of the problem is simply genetic and is passed on from one generation to the next generation.

Further, to make the picture even more confusing, German Shepherds with almost identical genetic makeups may have a wide range of differences in what degree of hip dysplasia they may display as adults. This fact can be attributed to the differences of environmental influences on the development of the hip joint, and most especially the strong effect of diet on a young dog.

Proper nutrition is essential for the development of a strong healthy dog. Keep in mind, however, poor or excessive nutrition can exacerbate genetic tendencies toward hip dysplasia.

Normal GSD hip joint

Dogs must be at least two years of age to be certified hip dysplasia free by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). The process is very simple. X-rays are taken of the hips, mailed to the foundation (OFA), examined by radiologists and graded on the actual appearance of the hips. Dogs which show signs of hip dysplasia are not good candidates for breeding and do nothing to further the soundness of the breed.

Currently there are several treatment options for dogs diagnosed with hip dysplasia, most involving surgery of some type. The most curative option is a “Total Hip”. Bacically, this involves replacing the head of the femur and the acetabulum of the pelvis with artificial components.

A dysplastic dog who is not required to perform or phycically work a great deal can often be managed with pain medications. Often, a mild pain reliever may be all that a dog needs to be comfortable enough to go about his daily routine. Alternative treatments are available as well. Glucosamine and Chondroitin have been used to treat osteoarthritis in Europe for over twenty years.

Because of the huge number of humans and pets suffering from osteoarthritis and the tremendous success in the treatment of this disease when using glucosamine and chondroitin, many companies are now producing a product line and several broad research studies are underway. Osteoarthritis also affects small dogs and cats and glucosamine and chondroitin have been used very effectively in relieving their symptoms as well.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are normal substances found in the body of living animals. They are at their highest concentration in cartilage. In normal healthy animals the body is able to synthesize enough glucosamine to keep the existing cartilage healthy, but when the animal ages or there is damage to joint cartilage it cannot produce enough to keep up with the body's needs. This is where a supplemental form of glucosamine is needed and you'll find a link to one we recommend below.

Return from hip dysplasia to arthritis in the GSD