Pomeranian Hip Problems

The Pomeranian breeds originated by some accounts in ancient Egypt, where skeletons of larger specimens of the breed were found in tombs of the pharaohs. The accepted origin of the breed, however, is attributed to an area near the Baltic Sea known as Pomerania. At this point in time, the breed was larger, often weighing as much as 30 lbs. The migration of the breed to Europe resulted in cross-breeding, which eventually led to the smaller stature of the dog and a variety of coat coloring. It is said that Queen Victoria was responsible for the breed becoming fashionable and widely accepted throughout the United Kingdom and Europe.

  1. Hip Problems

    • The two common hip problems for Pomeranians are hip dysplasia and Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease (LCPD). Of these two problems, LCPD is generally considered to be the more serious due to its degenerative nature. Yet both problems can affect this breed of dog, at times occurring when they are puppies. Symptoms can be detected at an early age by instituting a routine of regular check-ups by a qualified veterinarian. Overall symptoms will be noticed in problems with walking, such as limping and signs of pain.

    Hip Dysplasia

    • Hip dysplasia is a dislocation of the hip joint. The genesis of this problem can be genetic, dietary, or environmental in nature. Improper formation of the components of the hip joint, including the femur and the pelvis, will lead to a chronic dislocation of the hip, which can potentially cause the dog pain and difficulty in walking. While this condition is considered to be manageable, surgery may be required in the more severe or long term cases. In other cases, the dog may not suffer a great deal of pain or lack of mobility.

    LCPD

    • According to the Texas A & M University, Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease is a degenerative condition that is more common to toy breeds of the Pomeranian. This disease occurs when the flow of blood to the head of the femur is restricted, causing a disintegration of this area of the bone where it connects to the pelvis. The first indications will be a noticeable limping and atrophy of the muscles in the area. This disease can begin in Pomeranian puppies as early as 4 to 6 months of age.

    Treatments

    • Both of these hip problems in Pomeranians can be treated surgically. LCPD is treated by surgically removing the part of the femur that has degenerated. This will separate the femur from the pelvis, but eventually the scar tissue that results from the surgery will collect in the area and will create a "false" joint that is usually pain-free. Hip dysplasia can also be treated by surgery. This can include the procedure for LCPD, or a triple pelvic osteotomy that cuts the pelvis in three places to allow for a better fit for the femur.

    Conclusions

    • Early detection of symptoms of these hip problems may be the best way to avoid chronic conditions from developing. Many breeders will offer proof of the health status as it pertains to these problems by providing paperwork that includes x-rays. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) can be included in the certification of the dog and will offer health clearances and a score on the dog's condition. Regular exercise, which can include swimming as well as walks, will also help to ward off these problems.