How to Diagnose a Dislocated Hip in a Canine

It's scary when a pet is sick or injured. Aside from the concern for its well-being, it is frequently difficult to diagnose because the pet cannot tell you what is wrong. Hip dysplasia or dislocation is common in certain breeds of dogs, and the results can be painful for the animal. Dysplasia is a weakening of the hip joint that leads to the sliding of the ball out of the socket in the hip joint. Dislocation is when the ball comes completely out. Diagnosing a dog with a dislocated hip needs to happen quickly so it can be treated.

Instructions

    • 1

      Watch your dog walk. If it is incapable to walking or is hobbling with a limp, the hip could be subluxed or completely dislocated.

    • 2

      Look at your dog's legs. A leg with a dislocated hip will frequently look shorter than the other three legs.

    • 3

      Feel the hips of your dog. Be careful because the area could be tender and any pressure could result in a fear-biting instinct. Do not physically examine your dog if it is growling. The dislocated hip will likely be swollen and abnormal when compared to the other three.

    • 4

      Get a professional opinion. Your vet will need to take a radiograph to confirm the status of the hip joint so a proper plan of treatment can be devised.