Elbow and Hip Dysplasia

What is elbow and hip dysplasia?

Dysplasia means abnormal growth or development. The elbow has three separate bones that meet together, and the hip joint is a ball and socket. A growth abnormality in any of these components can cause pain and instability. Elbow or hip dysplasia is often inherited, but rapid growth rate, early repetitive exercise, and early spaying or neutering may affect joint development. Elbow and hip dysplasia often cause arthritis in dogs.

What are common elbow or hip dysplasia signs in dogs?

Early signs include:

• Mild to moderate lameness that does not resolve completely with rest

Many dogs with elbow or hip dysplasia show no early signs.

Intermediate to advanced signs include: 

• Decreased willingness to exercise or go on walks
• Reluctance to rise or jump
• Thickened or swollen elbow joint
• Loss of hind limb muscling

How is elbow or hip dysplasia managed in dogs?  

Elbow or hip dysplasia management depends on a dog’s age and disease severity. Arthroscopic elbow surgery can clear loose joint cartilage or bone chips to reduce pain and minimize future arthritic changes. For hip dysplasia, multiple surgical choices can be considered, but if surgery is not an option, medical management focuses on comfort and joint protection. Multimodal treatment options for dogs include weight reduction, omega-3 fatty acid supplements, cartilage protective supplements and injections, anti-inflammatory and pain medications, acupuncture, laser treatment, and physical rehabilitation. Discussing a personalized management plan with your veterinarian is important for the best outcome for your dog.

What is the prognosis for dogs with elbow or hip dysplasia?

Dogs with elbow dysplasia will eventually develop arthritis, whether or not they have surgery. Dogs with successful early surgery for hip dysplasia may have a normal quality of life. Medical management for elbow or hip dysplasia provides comfort, but can become more complex over time.  

Management tips for dogs with elbow or hip dysplasia   

At-home needs include:

• Easy access to food and water, and a comfortable bed
• Consistency with prescribed medications and supplements
• Avoiding strenuous or repetitive exercise
• Regular, controlled leash walks or swimming
• Maintaining a good body weight
• Monitoring activity level, appetite, drinking, and urination

For end-of-life care:

• Try to keep dog your safe and comfortable
• Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration
• Monitor for pain or discomfort
• Evaluate your dog’s quality of life with our scoring tool
• Track progression of their health with our calendar

In a crisis situation:

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog cannot walk, develops new symptoms, or vocalizes in pain.

Before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life, beginning end-of-life care discussions is vital. Learn more about pet hospice, in-home euthanasia, and our teleadvice service, or contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area, so you can feel fully prepared for this progressive disease.