Carpal Hyperextension is caused by the carpal or wrist area bending more than normal, often due to an accident, tearing the carpal ligaments. Once these ligaments are torn or pulled, stability is lost in the carpal joint and wrist area. As a result your dogs carpal area will start to walk closer to the ground.
- An accident e.g. your dog falls or is exercising resulting in them placing too much force on their carpal pad ligament and they rupture the carpal ligament
- Degenerative conditions
- Larger breed dogs are more likely to experience carpal hyperextension as they are heavier and their carpal ligament longer, meaning they have an increased chance of carpal injury
How to help around the house
It is a good idea to make sure your dog has as much grip on the bottom of their paw, this will reduce the chance of further injury due to slipping on wooden or smooth floor surfaces. Look at socks with a rubber base, such as the Traction socks here. It is also a good idea to wear a carpal support wrap nearly constantly in the house so your dog does not injure themselves further with activities such as jumping off the sofa. You can take the support wrap off at night.
What age does a dog have Carpal Hyperextension
Dogs of all ages can be diagnosed with Carpal Hyperextension.
For younger dogs - puppies around 4 months old - it can be linked to a deformity.
For all other dogs, accidents are most likely to be the underlying cause.
For older dogs, degenerative conditions are more likely than other age ranges.