Large-breed dogs are a sight to behold, and having them as our canine companions gives us a sense of security. But what happens when hip dysplasia creeps in?
How can you help your dog navigate this problem? CBD could be the supplement that saves the day. Read on for more.
What is Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?
Dog hip dysplasia is a health problem that affects your dog’s femur, resulting in loose joint cartilage. Loose joint cartilage leads to osteoarthritis, mobility problems, and pain. The problem may develop during puppyhood or at a later stage. Genetics and nutrition play key roles.
The Cause of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
There are two major causes of canine hip dysplasia:
Genetics
Large and mixed-breed dogs are susceptible to hip dysplasia. This mainly stems from their fast growth and weight affecting their ball and socket. Here are the breeds predisposed to hip dysplasia:
- Rottweilers.
- Mastiffs.
- Saint Bernards.
- German Shepherd.
- Bulldogs.
- Golden Retrievers.
- Labradors Retrievers.
Nutrition
Excessive eating and rapid weight gain cause hip dysplasia in dogs. According to nutritional studies, some nutritional components have been linked to hip dysplasia development. The components are listed below:
- Growth rate and weight gain.
- The mode of feeding.
- Increased calorie consumption.
- Increased intake of some nutrients, like calcium
Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
Understanding the symptoms to watch out for is important, as it ensures you can help your dog before the problem becomes chronic. Here are the signs of canine hip dysplasia:
- Cracking sounds from the joints.
- Limping.
- No interest in physical activity.
- Pain or weakness in the hind legs.
- Difficulty going up or down the stairs.
- Wobbly when standing or sitting.
Any of these symptoms require a visit to the vet. The vet will carry out the necessary tests and prescribe the best medication.
Treatments Available for Hip Dysplasia
Treatment varies with the severity of the problem.
Minor Cases
If your dog exhibits minor hip dysplasia symptoms, your veterinarian may advise:
- Regular pain control with dietary supplements and NSAIDs on prescription
- Anti-inflammatory medications available over-the-counter
- Mobility-formulated dog food
Obese or Overweight Cases
The right nutritional plan is best for obese or overweight dogs. The main treatment options include:
- A weight-loss strategy to lessen joint friction,
- Specially developed dog food for weight management.
- Low-impact workout.
- Strengthening and therapeutic workouts
Severe Cases
Severe hip problems may require surgery, such as a total hip replacement or a femoral head ostectomy.
Conventional Options: NSAIDs to Reduce Inflammation
Veterinarians have traditionally prescribed NSAIDs to treat painful inflammation, but they have a variety of adverse reactions. The drawbacks of NSAIDs outweigh the benefits for some dogs. When dogs take traditional anti-inflammatory medications, they may vomit, lose their appetite, get depressed, develop tummy ulcers, have diarrhea, and develop kidney or liver failure.
Alternative Options: Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and CBD For Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
Below are the alternative options for dog hip dysplasia:
- Cannabinoid Oil (CBD): This supplement lowers the severity of pain while boosting the quality of life for dogs with osteoarthritis and joint problems.
- Chondroitin: Combining glucosamine and chondroitin reverses cartilage damage.
- Glucosamine: It works with chondroitin sulfate to boost your dog’s joint health and lower the chances of hip dysplasia.
- Green-lipped Mussels: They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and prevent joint diseases.
- Omega 3 Fatty Acids and DHA: They aid in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Possible Benefits of CBD for a Dog’s Hip Dysplasia
CBD is a healthy alternative to NSAIDs. It causes relatively few adverse effects in dogs. Here are some ways that the oil can lessen hip dysplasia symptoms:
Reducing inflammation
Inflammation makes your dog’s hip joints painful. Inflammation is typically aggressively treated with NSAIDs. Long-term NSAID use can negatively affect the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal system.
With little risk to your pet, incorporating CBD into their treatment regimen may be advantageous. It may improve blood flow, preventing further injury to the hip joint and starting the healing process.
Numerous studies have found cannabidiol to have potent anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically or eaten orally. One study found that CBD was beneficial in reducing osteoarthritis-related inflammation and reduced the development of this degenerative condition by reducing nerve damage.
Additionally, they are considered to have fewer and milder adverse effects than several approved NSAID medications frequently given to elderly pets.
Lowering pain severity
Prescription pharmaceuticals like opioids and NSAIDs are typically used for pain treatment. These drugs have significant negative effects despite their high effectiveness. Chemical dependence, the possibility of a fatal overdose, and long-term liver damage are examples of side effects.
On the contrary, numerous studies have shown that cannabidiol efficiently relieves pain with few negative effects. This supplement may inhibit the brain’s vanilloid pain receptors, which aid in lowering the pain signals sent to the brain.
Promoting regeneration process
Consuming CBD activates chondrocytes in the hip joints to assist in repairing and regenerating damaged cartilage tissue.
Boosts mobility
CBD oil may increase your aged dog’s mobility because it can treat pain and inflammation. The research found that giving dogs with osteoarthritis 2 mg of CBD twice daily increased their mobility.
How much CBD should you give a dog with hip dysplasia?
The recommended dose for hip dysplasia in dogs is 1-2 milligrams of CBD per kilogram of weight. Giving the dog a dose of 2 mg/kg is safe if it is in pain.
If you have trouble orally administering CBD, you can try CBD treats with doses between 3-6 mg/kg of CBD.
Best CBD Oil for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia
There are loads of CBD oil to select from. Always ensure you purchase high-quality CBD from a reputable source. Here’s one of our best CBD oil for hip dysplasia in dogs:
The Anxious Pet Relax and Roll CBD Oil
Pain can lead to anxiety and discomfort in some dogs. This high-quality CBD provides your dog with the complete treatment they require for hip dysplasia while easing their mental distress. The 0.5 ml increments in the dropper make it easy to administer. The oil is available in a 500mg strength.
You can directly provide the liquid to your dog orally or incorporate it into food or a treat. The drawback is that some dogs could develop negative effects like other CBD products. Additionally, some customers claim that this product isn’t as efficient as other ones they’ve used.
Features
- The 0.5 ml increments make it easier to administer.
- It is third-party tested for safety.
- It uses full-spectrum cannabinoids for fast and effective results.
Pro
- Easy to administer.
- Available in 500 mg potency.
- It uses full-spectrum CBD.
- It boosts the immune and brain function.
- Keeps dogs calm.
- Lowers the chances of skin irritations and inflammation.
Cons:
- Some customers claim the product is not as effective as other products.
- It may have negative side effects.
Can CBD cure hip dysplasia?
No. CBD cannot cure hip dysplasia. However, it lowers the severity of symptoms like pain and inflammation. CBD interacts with the brain’s receptors, thus reducing the severity of these symptoms.
Is CBD oil good for hip dysplasia?
Yes. CBD oil lowers the severity of symptoms that come with dog hip dysplasia. It reduces pain and inflammation, so your dog can live a happy life despite the problem.
Can supplements help hip dysplasia?
Yes. Healthy supplements, including CBD, chondroitin, glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids, and green-lipped mussels, have anti-inflammatory properties to lower hip and joint inflammation.
How do you prevent hip dysplasia from getting worse?
You can prevent hip dysplasia from getting worse by selecting a breeder that cares about the hip health of the dogs, feeding the dog food appropriate for their breed, and giving them supplemental vitamins and important nutrients,
How do you treat hip dysplasia naturally?
You can treat hip dysplasia naturally by managing your dog’s weight, offering the right diet, avoiding or delaying neutering, offering joint supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine, and using physical therapy.
What foods help with hip dysplasia?
Dog foods with antioxidants, like blueberries, are great for hip dysplasia in dogs. Antioxidants lower the risk of inflammation and prevent further infections. Lean meats like chicken and turkey also come in handy.
Further reading:
Final Thoughts
There you have all the information about hip dysplasia in dogs. CBD plays a key role in lowering the severity of symptoms. Such symptoms include pain and inflammation. CBD’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties ensure your dog enjoys life despite this health issue.
You can also help your dog by giving it the right food and maintaining weight. Obese dogs are at a higher risk of hip dysplasia than their lean counterparts. Combining CBD with exercise and a proper diet is the best way to help your sick dog. Always consult an experienced vet before using CBD for dog hip dysplasia.