Can I Prevent Hip Dysplasia In My Dog?

There are a number of causes of hip dysplasia, these include rapid growth, excessive weight gain, poor nutrition but most importantly, genetic factors.

The reason for most dogs developing hip dysplasia is due to inheriting the trait from one or both of their parents. Although hip dysplasia is known to be heavily influenced by genetics, no puppy is actually born with the condition (although it can be seen in puppies at only a few weeks old). What they are born with is a strong genetic predisposition to the disease.

It is seen much more commonly in pedigree dogs than in cross-breeds, although cross-breeds from pedigree parents are also at risk. Because of the known genetic link, it is possible (and sometimes mandatory) to screen for hip dysplasia before two dogs are mated and is something which you should check for before buying a puppy.

Over-exercising or doing activities which cause strain on joints, such as jumping when your dog is young and developing, will also increase their chance of developing hip dysplasia. Similarly, dogs which are overweight while young or fast-growing dogs are at an increased risk.

Read more about Dog Hip Dysplasia Causes, Prevention and How to Help at home https://zoomadog.co.uk/collections/dog-hip-dysplasia-braces-signs-and-treatment