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Is your adolescent dog hopping, sensitive around their hips, or refusing to walk?

🐾 Spotting and Supporting Joint Health in Dogs: Hip & Elbow Dysplasia , and Cruciate Injuries🐾


As dog owners, we all want our pups to live active, pain-free lives. But joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia and cruciate ligament injuries (CCL/ACL tears) are more common than many realize — especially in large breeds, athletic dogs, or seniors.

Here’s how to build awareness and support your dog’s long-term joint health 👇


🔍 Recognizing the Signs


Hip or Elbow Dysplasia (gradual onset):

  • Stiffness after rest or trouble getting up

  • “Bunny hopping” when running

  • Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or exercise

  • Decreased muscle mass in the back or front legs

  • Clicking or grinding sounds in joints


Cruciate Ligament Injuries (often sudden):

  • Sudden limping or holding one leg up

  • Sitting with one leg stretched out to the side

  • Swelling around the knee

  • Difficulty rising or jumping

  • Limp that improves with rest, then worsens after activity


⚠️ Common Causes and Contributing Factors


🦴 Genetics – Some breeds (like Labradors, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Golden Retrievers) are more prone to dysplasia and cruciate tears.

⚖️ Excess Weight – Carrying extra kilos puts added stress on joints and ligaments.

🏃‍♂️ Overexertion or Sudden Twisting – Sharp turns or repetitive impact (like chasing balls or running on slippery floors) can trigger injury.

📉 Poor Muscle Tone – Weak core or leg muscles provide less support to the joints.🍽️ Rapid Growth in Puppies – Overfeeding or high-calorie diets can lead to abnormal joint development.

📅 Age & Wear – Older dogs or those with arthritis are at higher risk for ligament strain or rupture.


🏠 Making Your Home More Joint-Friendly


You can make a few small changes that have a big impact on comfort and prevention:

  • 🪵 Add rugs or non-slip mats on hard floors to prevent slipping.

  • 🛏️ Use orthopedic or memory foam beds that cushion pressure points.

  • 🪜 Provide ramps or steps for getting on couches, into cars, or up stairs safely.

  • 🚫 Avoid repetitive jumping (like onto furniture or out of vehicles).

  • 🐾 Keep nails trimmed – long nails alter gait and strain joints.

  • 🌳 Stick to low-impact exercise like swimming or gentle walks on grass instead of hard pavement.


❤️ Treatment & Ongoing Management


Treatment depends on severity and the dog’s lifestyle:

  • Mild cases: weight control, anti-inflammatories, joint supplements, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy.

  • Moderate–severe cases: may require surgery to correct the joint or stabilize the knee.

  • Rehabilitation: laser therapy, controlled exercise, and muscle strengthening are key for recovery.


🕊️ Prognosis


With early detection and consistent management, many dogs live long, happy, and active lives. The earlier you notice the signs, the better your dog’s outcome will be — and the more comfortable they’ll stay as they age.


👉 Tip: If your dog starts limping, slowing down, or hesitating to jump or climb — don’t ignore it. Early vet checks make all the difference.


Let’s keep our best friends moving comfortably for years to come 💚



 
 
 

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