Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia In Dogs
- Reluctance to exercise
- Abnormal gait (can be very subtle at first)
- Stiffness when rising or walking up stairs
- Tiring easily after exercise
- Dogs hips hurting
- "Bunny-hopping" when running, where the legs move together
X-rays are the most common method for diagnosis, although the hip dysplasia may not show up completely until the dog is several years old. The dog may have bursts of energy and be able to run as a young dog, but the exercise may not be as consistent as a dog of a comparable age. Young dogs may tire more easily after playing. Many dogs with hip dysplasia may have had it to some extent all of their lives (congenital), and thus may not show extensive outward signs of pain for several years. The extent to which this congenital defect may affect the dog's quality of life can be greatly improved using natural remedies for hip dysplasia in dogs and antioxidants to reduce the rate of deterioration.
German shepherd hip dysplasia, like that found in Labrador retrievers, English bulldogs and Golden Retrievers, is a concern for pet owners who adopt one of these breeds. Canine hip dysplasia is primarily the result of hereditary predisposition [1], but environmental factors such as the dog's diet can have a critical role.
Dog Hip Dysplasia Success Stories
Legend's Story
"Legend is our 14 year old rescued husky. The video was filmed when he was 10 1/2 but he is still an active happy camper going on two long walks a day. We got Legend when he was about a year old and noticed that he had difficulty sitting down on hard surfaces and when he did sit down, his legs and paws would go slightly outward, not straight forward like other dogs. He seemed happy and playful but couldn't keep up with other dogs that were much older than he was. When Legend was around 2 years old, we discovered the severity of his condition. Legend loved to go to doggie day care but one day when we brought him home, he became very quiet. The next day, he could hardly get up. We found out that Legend had severe congenital hip dysplasia and were told that he would need to be on medication for the rest of his life. We gave Legend Metacam at first, but started him right away on Special SAMe based on our veterinarian's recommendation. We learned about the benefits of collagen and added the Ultraflex as well as the Joint Support Kit. We also started him on chiropractic adjustments and cold laser. Within about a month, Legend was back to his old self. Over the years, we have consistently used the supplements and recently added Organic Hemp Extract for Dogs anti-inflammatory drops. This year, we started Legend on a physical therapy program and you can see how much fun he is having! We are so grateful that a holistic approach has helped him and we have not had to use any pain or anti-inflammatory medications in years." - The Davis Family, CA
Recommended Supplements For Hip Dysplasia In Dogs
Recommended by Veterinarians, our supplements for hip dysplasia in dogs have been proven to help reduce pain and discomfort, promote healing and repair of the cartilage, reduce atrophy and improve mobility. What can you give a dog for hip pain? Happy Paws Organic Hemp Extract is the best CBD oil for dogs with hip dysplasia. It provides short term pain relief and works well when used with Special SAMe and Ultra-Flex Collagen to repair and protect the cartilage and joints. While many dogs may require pain and anti-inflammatory medications, supplements for hip dysplasia in dogs can significantly reduce the frequency and dosage of medications required.
Recommended Supplements for Hip Dysplasia
What Are The Best Supplements For Hip Dysplasia In Dogs?
Recommended by Veterinarians, our supplements for hip dysplasia in dogs have been proven to help reduce pain and discomfort, promote healing and repair of the cartilage, reduce atrophy and improve mobility. What can you give a dog for hip pain? Happy Paws Organic Hemp Extract is the best CBD oil for dogs with hip dysplasia. It provides short term pain relief and works well when used with Special SAMe and Ultra-Flex Collagen to repair and protect the cartilage and joints. While many dogs may require pain and anti-inflammatory medications, supplements for hip dysplasia in dogs can significantly reduce the frequency and dosage of medications required.
 Special SAMe – Our Special SAMe is one of the best joint supplements for dogs with hip dysplasia. Our science-based synergistic formula is proven to support joint health, relieve pain from arthritis and reduce inflammation. Many dogs that have hip dysplasia take anti-inflammatory (i.e. Rimadyl, Metacam, Deramax) and pain medications that can damage the liver. Special SAMe is the best supplement for hip dysplasia in dogs because it relieves pain but also detoxifies the liver. It can be used in conjunction with pain medications and can reduce the need for them. Special SAMe is recommended by veterinarians for arthritis and joint pain treatment. It promotes cellular growth repair and helps to protect the cartilage in the joints. We have seen dogs with hip dysplasia and chronic joint pain improve with Special SAMe when other supplements did not help.
 Ultra-Flex Collagen for Pets – Collagen enhances the flexibility of the tissues and enhances the strength and vitality of your dog's bones. This natural "whole-food" supplement builds cartilage and joint and connective tissue. This natural remedy for hip dysplasia in dogs provides cushioning and relieves the pain of the dogs hips hurting. Ultra-Flex Collagen For Pets contains NEM® brand eggshell membrane - a safe, all-natural whole-food source of glucosamine [2] and chondroitin that contains key bioactive proteins such as collagen, which have been shown to support joint comfort and flexibility. Key enzymes are added for enhanced absorption and bioavailability. Excellent choice for pets that are picky about herbal formulas. Does not contain fillers. Made in the USA.
.png) Happy Paws Organic Hemp Extract For Dogs - Happy Paws is the best CBD oil for dogs with hip dysplasia. This product is 100% organic and made in the USA. It contains simple ingredients: organic hemp extract and coconut oil. It’s rigorously tested for potency and purity. Just a few drops of this professional veterinary-strength hemp oil relieves pain and reduces inflammation. Provides short term pain relief. Works best when used with joint repair supplements such as Special SAMe and Ultra-Flex Collagen. Many clients report that they are able to stop giving or can significantly reduce pain medication and anti-inflammatories when using Organic Hemp Extract for hip dysplasia in dogs. Each 1oz bottle contains 550mg of full spectrum hemp extract in an unflavored all-natural coconut oil base. 100% organic. Made in the USA.
 ArthroStride for Pets - ArthroStride is the most comprehensive arthritis, hip and joint supplement available for dogs. It contains scientifically proven ingredients including: glucosamine, MSM, New Zealand green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus), NAC, collagen, CMO, curcumin, hyaluronic acid and more, to promote joint repair, increase mobility and reduce joint degeneration. ArthroStride is the best joint supplement for dogs with hip dysplasia. All ingredients are third-party tested for purity and efficacy. Made in the USA.
 K9 CurcuMagic - A scientifically proven, holistic anti-inflammatory for dogs that contains a patented combination of three curcuminoids: curcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin and demethoxycurcumin. These are the strongest, most protective and best-researched constituents of the herb turmeric that act as powerful free-radical scavengers. Curcumin is helpful in reducing inflammation caused by hip or elbow dysplasia. Helps to relieve pain and improve mobility. K9 CurcuMagic for Dogs is especially bioavailable (pets can get the most benefit) because of the added turmeric essential oil, to improve absorption.
 Amazing Omegas for Pets - The highest-quality purified fish oil available for pets. It is a powerhouse of omega-3 (EFA) nutrients. Omega-3 essential fatty acids contain anti-inflammatory properties that are therapeutic for arthritis and joint pain. Amazing Omegas is a highly purified fish oil made from sardines, anchovies and mackerel processed with minimal heat to preserve the oil in its natural state. Packed in glass bottles to prevent any chemicals from plastic leaching into the oil. Naturally processed, highly bioavailable, with all toxins and heavy metals carefully removed. Compare the nutrient panel of this premium pet fish oil to all other brands and see the difference.
Dog Hip Dysplasia Home Treatment
In addition to supplements, other holistic treatments will also help dogs with hip problems.
Physical Therapy for Hip Dysplasia
Veterinary physical therapy modalities have been very successful in helping pets with the pain and inflammation associated with musculoskeletal conditions such as hip dysplasia. Chiropractic, massage, cold laser, hydrotherapy, and acupuncture are some of the animal rehabilitation techniques used to maintain the function and mobility of muscles and joints [5]. Activity is key with hip dysplasia. Keeping the hip and surrounding muscles strong can help to reduce stiffness and slow the progression of degenerative hip dysplasia. Click here to learn more about pet rehabilitation.
Anti-Inflammatory Diets
What are the best dog foods for hip dysplasia? A hypoallergenic, raw frozen diet is the optimum choice for dogs with hip dysplasia. Dry kibble diets are high in carbohydrates and many contain chemicals and grains which can increase swelling and inflammation. Grains such as wheat, barley, rice, and quinoa should be avoided. Common allergens, such as poultry, dairy, and peanut butter, should also be avoided as food allergies and food sensitivities can cause an inflammatory response in the body. Meat protein should be the first ingredient in your dog's food. Try adding omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oil or baked fish to meals. Scientific research shows that omega 3s help dogs with joint pain and mobility problems [6].
Does your dog like vegetables? Dark green vegetables, like kale, zucchini, and green beans, are loaded with antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Adding vegetables to meals can help your dog feel full with fewer calories. Preventing weight gain can help to reduce pressure on the hips. The natural vitamins and minerals that vegetables contain are an added bonus for your dog's well-being.
Regular Exercise
Use it or lose it. You have probably heard this phrase at some point in reference to the importance of exercise. This is especially true for dogs with hip dysplasia. Low-impact and high-resistance exercises can help your pup maintain muscle quality and slow or prevent the progression of the arthritis symptoms associated with hip dysplasia. Slow walks and swimming are excellent ways to help keep your dog active. It is important to keep your dog at their ideal weight. Excess weight causes additional stress to the hip socket and leg muscles and can make your dogs hips hurt. Maintaining a healthy weight can also decrease joint inflammation caused by fat. Do you need some tips on how to help your dog lose weight? Click here for 7 easy ways to help your dog lose weight.
Sources
1. https://www.petcarerx.com/article/8-ways-to-treat-dog-joint-pain/1403
2. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/glucosamine-for-dogs/
3. https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/msm-raw-fed-dogs/
4. https://veterinary-practice.com/article/the-value-of-the-green-lipped-mussel
5. http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-diseases-conditions-a-z/9-common-ways-treat-and-manage-canine-hip-dysplasia
6. https://www.americanveterinarian.com/news/omega3s-significantly-improved-canine-arthritis-in-doubleblind-clinical-trial
Originally published March 13, 2019
Updated March 7, 2024
Written by: Susan Davis, Pet Health Nutritionist, CCN
All pet treatment protocols and pet treatment supplements have been reviewed and approved by a veterinarian
How long can a dog live with hip dysplasia?
Dogs with hip dysplasia can adapt and live a long, happy life without drugs. Natural treatment for hip dysplasia in dogs such as a canine supplement for hips, cold laser, chiropractic, acupuncture, hydrotherapy and physical therapy can all improve a dog’s mobility. Hip dysplasia is a very painful skeletal condition that is more common in large breed dogs, such as Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Rottweilers and Great Danes. It is usually diagnosed fairly early in a dog’s life. By keeping your dog at a healthy weight, maintaining a regular exercise schedule and adding natural remedies for hip pain in dogs, your pup can live a long and happy life. Check out Ask Ariel’s company mascot, Legend. The 12 year old rescue husky was diagnosed with hip dysplasia over 10 years ago and is still running and active!
How to help a dog with hip dysplasia?
Many pet owners resort to daily use of anti-inflammatory drugs and pain killers without realizing that a natural treatment for hip dysplasia in dogs can be especially effective. Drugs should be a last resort and used in conjunction with holistic treatments. A natural treatment for hip dysplasia in dogs includes joint support supplements, a regular exercise schedule, feeding a low carbohydrate, anti-inflammatory diet to maintain a healthy weight and animal rehabilitation therapies. Using the best joint supplement for dogs with hip dysplasia can help repair cartilage, support the joints and increase mobility. In addition to supplements, physical therapies such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, stretching, massage, laser treatment, acuscope and hydrotherapy are all beneficial for dogs with hip dysplasia. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential in keeping your dog comfortable, as obesity puts more pressure on the joints and can increase pain and inflammation. Frequent, short walks can also help dogs with hip dysplasia.
How to tell if a dog has hip dysplasia?
A veterinarian will perform a physical exam and take X-rays to diagnose hip dysplasia. The most common symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs are: reluctance to exercise, abnormal gait, stiffness, tiring easily and bunny-hopping when running. There are many factors that can lead to hip dysplasia, but the biggest factor is genetics. Hip dysplasia is the abnormal formation of the ball and socket in the canine hip joint. It is most common in large breed dogs, but can affect any breed. If your dog has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia, adding natural supplements and antioxidants can help keep your dog active and healthy.
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