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EN Hip Dysplasia in Labradors: Prevention and Care
Learn about hip dysplasia in Labradors: causes, prevention, symptoms, and treatment options.
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Hip dysplasia is one of the most common conditions in large breeds like the Labrador. Understanding this condition will help you prevent and manage it effectively.
What is Hip Dysplasia?
It is a malformation of the hip joint where the femur head does not fit correctly into the pelvic cavity. This causes pain, lameness, and eventually arthritis.
Risk Factors
- Genetics: The most important factor. That’s why at ROROs Labs we only breed dogs with OFA Excellent or Good certification.
- Rapid growth: Overfeeding puppies can worsen the condition.
- Inadequate exercise: Excessive jumping and stairs in young puppies.
- Obesity: Being overweight accelerates joint deterioration.
Prevention
- Buy only from breeders who certify OFA hips
- Keep your puppy at ideal weight
- Avoid high-impact exercise before one year of age
- Use glucosamine supplements from an early age
Treatment
Options range from management with anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy, to surgeries like total hip replacement in severe cases.
At ROROs Labs, all our breeding dogs have OFA hip and elbow certification, minimizing risk in their puppies.