Dysplasia in dogs refers to the abnormal development or growth of a particular organ or body part. The term is commonly used in the context of orthopedic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. 

These conditions are often hereditary and can affect certain breeds more commonly than others. Nonetheless, they could still occur to any breed.  

The clinical signs would depend on the type of dysplasia. Typically, it involves an extensive history taking, thorough physical examination, and imaging techniques such as X-rays and Computed Tomography (CT) scans. 

Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the dysplasia. For joint dysplasia, conservative management may involve physical therapy, weight control, and pain management. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be recommended.

This condition could be prevented through selective breeding practices, regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and providing appropriate exercise. 

While CBD (cannabidiol) oil has gained popularity for its potential health benefits in humans, its use for dogs is a topic of interest and ongoing research. 

If you suspect your dog may have dysplasia or if you're concerned about their joint health, consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and guidance.

Common Dysplasia in Dogs

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint where the ball and socket do not fit together properly. 

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is a condition where there is an abnormal development of the elbow joint, leading to joint incongruity. 

Other Types of Dysplasia

Dysplasia can also occur in other parts of the body. For example, retinal dysplasia can occur in the eyes, and cervical vertebral instability (Wobbler syndrome) can affect the neck vertebrae.

In this article, we will focus on Hip Dysplasia being the most commonly diagnosed dysplasia in dogs. 

Canine Hip Dysplasia

Canine Hip Dysplasia is the most common hereditary skeletal problem in dogs causing abnormal development of the hip joint.

Hip Dysplasia is characterized by a loose joint and subsequent degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) causing pain and dysfunction. This genetic condition usually affects both sides.

Normally, the ball and the socket in the hip joint fit and move smoothly without any friction. 

Causes of Dog's Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is an abnormality affected by several factors such as genetics, diet or nutrition, growth rate, improper weight, muscle mass, exercise, and hormones. These factors can magnify its genetic predisposition.

Genetics

Although any dog may develop hip dysplasia from other conditions, it is commonly a hereditary skeletal disease most common in large and giant breeds. 

Diet or Nutrition

The kind of diet you give your dog determines whether they have a high chance of developing hip dysplasia. High-calorie as well as low calcium and phosphorus diet predispose dogs to hip dysplasia development.

Growth Rate

Imbalance between the muscle mass and the skeletal development leads to joint laxity.

Improper Weight 

Dogs that gain weight too quickly during their growth phase can put additional stress on their developing skeletal system, including the hip joints.

Muscle Mass or Soft tissues

Failure of soft tissues to hold the joint surfaces together results in hip dysplasia. It is crucial to introduce helpful supplements into your dog’s diet to ensure your dog’s tissues remain strong enough to hold joint surfaces and bones together in the desired places.

Exercises

Excessive or high-impact exercise during the growth phase may contribute to the development of hip dysplasia and other bone problems, especially in susceptible breeds.

Hormones

Hormonal factors, including sex hormones, may play a role in the development of hip dysplasia. For example, there is an increased prevalence of hip dysplasia in female dogs, and the condition often worsens during periods of reproductive maturity.

Signs of Canine Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia can occur in dogs as young as four months old. However, no visible signs are usually observed during the early stages. Some older dogs get it with osteoarthritis. Symptoms would vary based on several factors. However some of these are:

• Unwillingness to walk or exercise
• Awkward running or “bunny hopping”
• Limping without trauma or injury
• Chronic or occasional frailty
• Decreased activity
• Difficulty going up or down 
• Struggling to stand still or sit properly
• Occasional or continued lameness
• Cracking or popping joint sounds
• Muscle loss
• Pain and discomfort around the hip area

If you notice one or a combination of these symptoms, you should reach out to your veterinarian for more information on how to treat this condition. The earlier this condition is diagnosed, the better the chances of successful treatment.

Treatment of Hip Dysplasia

Treatment of hip dysplasia in dogs depends on the overall status of the animal. Complete orthopedic evaluation is needed before determining the appropriate treatment regimen for your dog. Your vet will discuss one or combination of the following treatment options.

Surgery

Dogs with advanced hip dysplasia may require surgical treatment to correct the condition. There are many factors to consider before surgery is warranted.

Discuss with your primary care veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary surgeon to determine the best options for your pet. If your dog is a good candidate for surgery, here are some of the common surgical procedures that are conducted by a veterinary surgeon:

Double or triple pelvic osteotomy (DPO/TPO)

DPO/TPO is a joint-saving procedure usually performed in young dogs less than 10 months old wherein a juvenile pubic symphysiodesis is performed. By selectively cutting the pelvic bone and rotating the segments, the function of the ball and socket joint is improved.

Femoral head ostectomy (FHO)

FHO is a surgical strategy to manage pain that can be performed on young and mature dogs. The femoral head, or “ball,” of the hip joint is cut creating a “false” joint and reduces the discomfort associated with hip dysplasia.

Total hip replacement (THR)

THR is the most effective surgical treatment for adult dogs that are skeletally mature and have limited mobility. The entire joint is replaced with metal and plastic implants. This removes most of the discomfort associated with hip dysplasia and returns hip function to a more normal range.

Medication

This is a multimodal approach to manage pain while maintaining joint and muscle health. Medications may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pain reduction drugs such as tramadol, amantadine, or gabapentin. 

Veterinary-approved oral joint supplements such as omega-3 fatty acid, glucosamine, methylsulfonylmethane and chondroitin have improved cases of hip dysplasia. Regular injections of polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (Adequan, Cartrophen) have been proven helpful as well (De Haan, et al, 1994).

Recently, the use of CBD Oil such as Paw Origins CBD Full-Spectrum (1,000MG) Happy-Furever™ Oil, has gained popularity in the management of joint problems in dogs. 

Complementary Treatment

Physical Therapy (PT) and acupuncture have been shown to increase muscle strength, improve joint mobility, decrease pain, and improve the quality of life. 

Conservative therapy

Conservative treatment options for canine hip dysplasia is mainly a lifestyle modification (Kirkby, 2011) including proper diet, weight reduction, and moderate exercise. Kirby concluded that weight management is a vital part of managing dogs with hip dysplasia and associated osteoarthritis. 

The CBD Oil

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant without psychoactive properties. This compound is extracted and added with a carrier oil and flavoring, bottled, packed and tested before it is made available in the market.

Factors to Consider in Choosing CBD Oil

Hemp source

CBD is made from hemp, a type of Cannabis that has less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component. 

Extraction Method

CBD oil is extracted from dried parts of the plants through carbon dioxide extraction, ethanol extraction, isopropyl extraction, dry ice extraction, hydrocarbon extraction, or vegetable oil extraction.

Extract types

CBD Oil extracts are classified as full-spectrum, broad-spectrum or pure isolate.

Potency

CBD potency shows the strength of the product to reach the desired effect. The higher the potency, the more effective it will be. 

Lab results

Updated official results from a third party laboratory verifies the amount of CBD and other compounds in the container. It should be posted on the official product or company website.   

The Entourage Effect

Entourage effect is the idea that substances that are taken together would give better results than when taken individually due to their synergistic interaction. In the world of CBD, this refers to the teamwork of the 80+ cannabinoids, 100+ terpenes, and flavonoids found in the hemp plant working together to produce the desired “healing effect”. 

The Endocannabinoid System in Dogs 

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an ubiquitous major lipid system  in the body consisting of endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids), their receptors and enzymes, providing homeostatic balance of the nervous and immune system, and different organ systems. 

Benefits of CBD for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia

CBD helps in dog joint problems by interacting with the dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). according to Canine Arthritis Resources and Education (CARE). Let us see how.

Anti-inflammatory properties

The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD help reduce inflammation and pain associated with hip dysplasia. Reducing inflammation improves mobility and comfort for dogs.

Pain relief

Some studies demonstrated analgesic properties of CBD that alleviate discomfort and help manage the pain from hip dysplasia by interacting with the endocannabinoid system and potentially reduce their reliance on prescription pain medications.

Anxiety relief

Dogs with hip dysplasia experience chronic pain and discomfort leading to anxiety and stress. CBD has been studied for its anxiolytic effects, which may contribute to an overall improvement in the well-being of dogs with hip dysplasia.

Enhanced joint health

Some studies suggest that CBD may have a protective effect on joints and cartilage Natarajan and Puri, 2023. While more research is needed, this could be particularly beneficial for dogs with hip dysplasia, as it is a condition that involves degeneration of the hip joint.