Research suggests that dogs first experienced domestication some 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. Since then, the popularity of canines has grown as quickly as the number of breeds available. Top on the list for most families looking to add a dog to their ranks is the Labrador retriever. Known for its kind, outgoing and non-aggressive nature, the Labrador fits naturally into most households. However, this breed can also have genetic problems, such as hip dysplasia, that mean the family dog may need some of the same tender care it provides on a daily basis.
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Identification
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Hip dysplasia most often appears in Labradors in the middle or later stages of life. In some cases, however, the first symptoms of a problem start to show up early, even in puppies as young as five months. Many Labradors are born with healthy hips that become dysplastic. The exact cause of hip dysplasia can't always be diagnosed, though the American Kennel Club suggests genetics and environment play an important role. Hip dysplasia occurs when the muscles and tissue surrounding the hip joint are weakened and can no longer support the ball and socket.
Features
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Recognizing the symptoms of hip dysplasia is the first line of defense you can provide your Labrador retriever. Changes in your animal's behavior during exercise, as well as in routine movements such as climbing stairs or getting up from laying down, may indicate a hip problem. Other symptoms of hip dysplasia include limping or lameness after walks, popping sounds when your dog walks or tenderness when the hindquarters are touched.
Effects
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For many Labradors, dysplasia is going to lead to continued degeneration of the hip joint, which can lead to arthritis in the affected area, as well as mobility problems that vary in seriousness from a reduced range of motion in the joint to serious debilitation. Most, if not all, Labradors with hip dysplasia experience pain that will need to be managed.
Prevention/Solution
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Hip dysplasia cannot be cured, but you can manage your dog's pain in several ways. If your dog has relatively minor pain, consider using acetaminophen to reduce the discomfort. Additionally, check with your vet to see if perhaps putting your dog on an anti-inflammatory drug would help reduce swelling and decrease pain. When dealing with hip dysplasia that is more serious, a vet might recommend injecting the affected joints with cortisone to manage pain and swelling. In some cases, the best alternative is surgery to repair or completely replace the affected hip joints.
Considerations
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Many organizations, including the American Kennel Club (AKC), have strict guidelines concerning breeding, so buying a dog whose parents are AKC registered is a good first step. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) also evaluates canine hips, giving scores accordingly. When buying a Labrador, ask the breeder about the parents' OFA hip scores to be sure they were rated nothing less than good or excellent.
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