Puppy Conditions

Puppyhood lasts 12 to 18 months, during which a dog's bones and growth plates are still developing. Early excessive load can impact bone growth and lead to joint issues later. Congenital conditions present at birth or developing in young dogs can include neurological problems, muscle defects, or bone and joint issues like elbow dysplasia, hip laxity, Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD), and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. These often require long-term management and sometimes surgery. Early physiotherapy and proper care can significantly improve a dog's quality of life as they age.

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General Knowledge of Puppy Health

What is the Difference Between Puppy and Adult Bones?

Bone growth continues until a puppy is 12 to 18 months old. During this period, their bones are smaller and softer, making them prone to injuries like joint sprains or fractures. To prevent such issues, it's best to avoid allowing your puppy to jump from heights or engage in intense activities like agility classes until their bones are fully developed.

X-ray comparison of a puppy's limb (left) and an adult dog's limbs (right).

Common Congenital Conditions:

Elbow dysplasia - Occurs when the three bones forming the elbow joint are misaligned or ill-fitted. It is particularly common in large to giant breed dogs, with up to an 80% chance of affecting both elbows. Breeds more susceptible include Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and German Shepherds.

Hip laxity - Puppies with hip joint laxity may end up developing hip dysplasia as the condition progresses. Laxity in the hip joint causes abnormal movement of the ball of the joint moving in the socket and this results in poorer motor function of the affected limb. Larger breed dogs like Golden Retrievers, Border Collies and Standard Poodles are more prone to this condition.

Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) - This developmental inflammatory disease involves abnormal cartilage growth in a puppy's joints, causing the cartilage to separate from the underlying bone. While it primarily affects the shoulder joint, it can also impact the elbow, hip, knee (stifle), and ankle (hock) joints. OCD is more common in larger breed dogs and is particularly prevalent in males.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease - This disease is where the ball of the hip joint has reduced blood supply, resulting in poor skeletal growth and eventually death of the bone. When this happens, the joint loses its function. This is a hereditary disease and more prevalent in Chihuahuas, Bichon Frises, Pomeranians and Poodles. It can also happen in cats.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy helps with pain modulation and reducing inflammation in the affected structures.

Pawrent Education and Empowerment

Congenital conditions usually require long-term management. Learning about your pet's condition and knowing how to manage it will make life easier for you and your furkid!

Manual Therapy

Congenital conditions may result in abnormal walking patterns. Soft tissue releases and joint mobilisations help ensure your pet has normal joint range of motion as they grow.

Therapeutic Exercise

Land-based exercises like gait pattern helps restore normal walking pattern in your pet. Strength and balance exercises keeps their muscles strong and supple as they grow into adulthood and slow down the rate of joint degeneration.

Learn more about these physiotherapy services here!