Does exercise have a bearing on hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is a common abnormality in large and giant breed dogs. Hip dysplasia, as this condition is called, causes joint instability that leads to inflammation, subsequent arthritis and crippling pain. The development of hip dysplasia is influenced by both genetic and non-genetic factors. Excessive trauma to the hip joint is believed to stretch the ligament that holds the hip in place, increasing the likelihood of clinical hip dysplasia. On the other hand, exercise keeps muscles toned, which helps protect the hip joint. The logical approach is to provide dogs with adequate exercise to tone their muscles, but not uncontrolled activity, which may stress the joint.
