The Chihuahua is a small dog with many unique qualities. Unfortunately, one such quality is the tendency to suffer from hip dysplasia, which can lead to debilitating pain and even disability if left untreated. Now, do you know about hip dysplasia in chihuahuas? Let’s learn about it in detail here!
Hip Dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint is not formed correctly. This can lead to various problems, including pain, stiffness, and even disability as your pup ages. Hip dysplasia is most commonly found in larger breeds of dogs, but it can also affect smaller breeds like the Chihuahua.
If you are worried that your Chihuahua may have hip Dysplasia, there are a few key symptoms you should be on the lookout for. These include difficulty rising from a seated position, reluctance to run or play, abnormal stance (i.e., standing with one hip higher than the other), and stiffness after rest periods.
This article will discuss what hip dysplasia is, who it affects, what symptoms you should look for in your pet, and how you can treat or cure your sick pup!
What Is Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the joint that connects your dog’s femur (the long bone running from his shoulder to hip) and acetabulum (his pelvic bone, connecting it with the hind legs) is malformed or improperly developed. This can lead to abnormal wear on these bones over time as they attempt to grow around each other.
Hip dysplasia is most commonly found in larger breeds of dogs, but it can also affect smaller specimens like the Chihuahua.
This condition occurs more often in female dogs than male ones. It tends to be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. (meaning that one parent must possess a copy of this gene for your pup to develop hip Dysplasia)
In addition, being overweight or inactive during childhood significantly increases the chances of seeing symptoms of hip dysplasia later in life!
What Are Sort Of Dogs At Risk Of Hip Dysplasia?
The following dog breeds are at high risk of developing hip dysplasia:
- Labrador
- Retrievers
- Golden Retriever
- Rottweilers
- German Shepherds
- Cocker Spaniels
- Saint Bernards
- Great Danes
- Dachshunds
- Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) and other small-breed dogs.
Hip dysplasia can affect Chihuahuas, but this breed’s problem is less common than in larger ones. Nevertheless, if you suspect your pet may have some early symptoms of hip dysplasia, take him to a veterinarian for an examination as soon as possible!
What Are The Symptoms Of Hip Dysplasia In The Chihuahuas?
The first thing to look for in the case of hip dysplasia is a characteristic stance. This can include an uneven posture. Moreover, the posture is one leg appears higher than it should be, as well as general stiffness when your pup walks or runs.
Suppose you notice abnormal limping patterns (i.e., walking on his tiptoes), unwillingness to run and play, difficulty rising from a seated position, or reluctance to jump onto things such as bedding or furniture. In that case, you may have a reason for concern!
In severe cases of hip dysplasia, dogs will begin having trouble standing up; they may even seem like they are perpetually sitting down because their hind legs cannot support them easily anymore. If this happens, seek veterinary attention immediately, as the condition will only worsen over time.
Diagnosis Of Hip Dysplasia In Chihuahuas
If you think your Chihuahua may have hip Dysplasia, the best way to confirm is through a veterinary exam. First, the vet will likely take x-rays of your pup’s hips to get a clear picture of the joint. Then, they will determine whether or not it is malformed.
There are also other tests that you can do to rule out other possible causes of your dog’s symptoms. They can be such as arthritis, luxating patella (dislocated kneecap), and spinal cord disease.
Can You Treat Or Cure Hip Dysplasia In Chihuahuas?
Sadly, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Depending on the severity of your dog’s hip dysplasia and how long it has gone untreated, various treatments may be available, including surgery, medication, and physical therapy.
Your veterinarian will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored specifically to your pet’s needs. With early diagnosis and intervention, however, many dogs can live relatively normal lives despite their hip dysplasia!
Conclusion
Suppose you suspect your Chihuahua may have hip Dysplasia – or any other health issue, for it is important to take him to the veterinarian for a complete examination. Symptoms of hip dysplasia can be similar to other conditions. So you want your dog evaluated by an expert with experience treating this condition!
Couch Potato Chihuahua Tip: Keep your Chihuahua active if they don’t have any symptoms.
However, if they begin exhibiting signs of stiffness or limping, start with seeing your vet. And after consulting them about how best to proceed, either find yourself another activity instead (i.e., swimming or hiking) or give up on exercise altogether until the issue clears up. Excessive physical exertion may exacerbate their problem(s).
