Canine hip dysplasia, 2: Control and treatment

Abstract

Extract

Canine hip dysplasia was first recognized 40 years ago (Schnelle, 1935) and since then it has been accepted as a common pathological condition of the coxofemoral joint. It is a disease that is characterized by an abnormal laxity of the joint which may or may not cause clinical signs of hind-limb lameness. Although it appears to be most prevalent in the larger breeds of dogs (Schnelle, 1954; Riser 1963; Larsen and Corley, 1970), it does occur in smaller breeds and in crossbred animals (Gustaffson et al., 1972; Lust et al., 1973). In recent years many of the large breeds of dogs have become more popular in New Zealand and this popularity has seemingly led to an increase, in the incidence of hip dysplasia. Because the condition is thought to be due to a heritable defect, attempts to eradicate it by selection and mating of “phenotypically normal” animals have been commonplace throughout the world. In addition, many methods of treatment or prevention of the disease in the individual animal have been recommended by veterinarians.