Hip Question - Page 1

I just had my 6 month gsd male pups hips pre-liminary x-rays done with the OFA. Results came back as good hips. I always like to get prelimb x-rays done to make sure everything is on track. I was starting to get a little worried about this pups hips in particular because when he walks or trots he seems to favor his left hip. It's really hard to explain what exactly it looks like when he walks or trots. Also I could have sworn I heard his hips popping. He doesn't seem to have any problems getting up from lying down nor does he seem to be in any type of pain. I have also never seen a dog that bunny hops as bad as he does. When he runs, both rear feet land at the same time and he uses his back feet like a pogo stick to propel himself forward. I see him stretching all the time and he is able to extend both legs backward with no problems. My question is what if anything could be wrong? I have heard that some dogs can have spinal problems and this could effect his hips? Is this correct? Any help you can give me would be great. Thanks in advance. Mysti

I think there may be a chance you are getting too nervous because your other dog has a problem. If the OFA prelims came back good, rejoice! He is a baby. As he develops some of his awkwardness will resolve. For now, do what you have been advised to do on the other thread and enjoy his ability to move. Bunny hopping is not all that uncommon at such an age. And there are several different methods by which a GSD moves forward. It is unlikely he has any kind of spinal issue going on, but again, if you have concerns, have your vet check him.

I really do hope that there is nothing wrong with his hips and that since I am a little nervous about hip dysplasia that all will be fine. I plan on getting his hips x-rayed again at a year and sending the x-rays in for his a-stamp. Wish me luck. Mysti

If a dog has a hip with a lot of laxtisity, will it show up on a OFA x-ray or do you have to do a PENN HIP x-ray? Mysti