Many dogs experience the painful disease of hip dysplasia. While this is more common in large-breed dogs, it can happen to all sizes. Hip dysplasia and a lot of other bone abnormalities are often thought to be caused by genetics. However, there is evidence that these issues can occur for other reasons, such as feeding the wrong food and exercising too much as a puppy. Because of this, it is important that you take care of your puppy's joints at an early age.
-
Find a Reputable Breeder
-
If you want to obtain your puppy from a breeder, make sure you do your research. Any reputable breeder will have their breeding dogs screened and registered by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). This means that the dogs have had radiographs of their hips, elbows, shoulders and knees examined by the OFA. While this doesn't guarantee that your dog will never have bone disorders, you can at least know that they don't run in his immediate family.
After you have received your puppy, be sure to take him to a veterinarian for an examination. The doctor can advise you of any concerns the dog may have. If your puppy does have orthopedic problems, most breeders will either let you trade your puppy in for another or can give you some money back. Be careful, however, if you decide to give your puppy back. Make sure you know exactly what the breeder is planning on doing with the dog.
Choose the Right Food
-
Many veterinarians recommend that large-breed puppies eat food that is specially formulated for their breed. Some puppy foods promote rapid growth by containing extremely high amounts of protein and fat. This growth can be detrimental to your puppy's orthopedic health. Large-breed puppy foods usually contain lower amounts of protein and fat and the makers are very careful with how much calcium is used. Too much calcium can also cause orthopedic problems. Many owners mistakenly think that giving their large-breed puppy calcium supplements will help them grow healthier. On the contrary, giving your dog more than the recommended dosage will only potentially cause damage.
Exercise and Play With Caution
-
Of course, your puppy is going to want to romp, stomp and play. However, as a responsible large-breed puppy owner, it is your job to supervise this exercise to ensure that your dog won't hurt himself or potentially cause problems for himself later on in life. Don't allow your puppy to play on slippery surfaces, as the awkward movements can cause orthopedic problems, such as hip dysplasia. If the playing environment only consists of non-carpeted areas, you may want to place a few rugs on the floor. Limit the length of time in which you allow your puppy to run. Too much stress on their growing bones can cause hairline fractures. Be sensible in what you allow your puppy to do. Don't let him play with dogs that are much bigger than he, as they might accidentally hurt him. If your puppy seems to be tired, stop him from playing and allow him to rest. Some puppies will continue to play long after they should. In addition, do not take your puppy on runs or horseback rides with you. Your puppy should not run that fast for that length of time.
-