How long can a dog live with hip dysplasia?

Technically there is no set standard or measures to predict the expected age of the dog after developing hip dysplasia. This condition isn’t lethal, but it badly affects your dog’s quality of life. But when this issue is diagnosed in early childhood or early stage, the dog gets increased chances to live a life closer to normal.

In many cases, mild hip dysplasia doesn’t show any sign or symptom, and you realize the condition when a lot of damage has been caused. Regular vet visits and a vigilant eye on symptoms are necessary.

What Is Canine Hip Dysplasia?

Canine hip dysplasia is an orthopedic condition with some issue(s) with the ball and socket of the hind leg joints. The ball grinds in the socket rather than moving smoothly. This situation can make the dog lame, but the excruciating pain is a must. It could also result in arthritis.

Signs of Hip Dysplasia

If your dog doesn’t like to do exercise and climb the stairs for no apparent reason, you must pay attention to this situation. The dog will not walk or run normally, and there will be a change in its gait. This is your cue for a vet visit for hip dysplasia.

Some subtle signs don’t even let you realize the gravity of the situation. A dog might show the following signs in case of hip dysplasia:

· Flinching when putting the burden on the rear leg

· Whining and growling

· Tucking of tail

· Unusual gait

· Decreased interest in playing activities

· Getting froze in the morning

· Difficulty in getting up

How Hip Dysplasia Impacts a Dog’s Life

Hip dysplasia will result in excruciating pain and decreased mobility. Both will result in a decreased quality of life, and your dog will be prone to obesity. It will make your dog overweight, and the resulting diseases can reduce life expectancy. But with the help of exercise and a balanced diet, you can reduce the impacts of side effects.

Causes of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Various factors can lead to hip dysplasia in dogs; according to the studies, the most common ones are:

1. Genetics

2. Environmental factors

3. Improper nutrition

4. Too much or too little exercise

5. Obesity

Treatment for Dog Hip Dysplasia

Early diagnosis is extremely helpful in managing this issue and increasing the quality of life of your pet. Hip dysplasia doesn’t kill your dog, and there is no way it can shorten the life span. But the resulting obesity and reduced quality of life can negatively affect their life expectancy.

According to the condition of the dog, the vet can prescribe any of the following methods or therapy:

1. Healthy diet

2. Surgery

3. Stem cell therapy

4. Specialized exercise