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Hip Dysplasia is simply an abnormal formation of the hip joint. It is similar to looseness in a joint, which should normally fit tightly into its socket. Consequent problems that can occur would happen as a result of this looseness.

Genetics plays an important role in the expression of Hip Dysplasia and it has been observed that there is a 25 to 85% chance of a dog inheriting this problem from its parents. The dog’s environment also plays an important role in observing signs of Hip Dysplasia.

In fact, a good environment can suppress onset of Hip Dysplasia, even in those dogs whose parentage had it earlier. These are some of the things you should take care of. Symptoms include sudden lameness, or the inability to walk properly in Hip Dysplasia and Golden retrievers having it are also likely to get arthritis when they grow older.

Nutrition plays a vital role in Hip Dysplasia and Golden retrievers with proper nutrition have been able to arrest growth rate and reduce the potential to develop Hip Dysplasia. You need to make sure that your dog is not overweight and is eating the right amount of fat and protein. The idea is not to starve the animal, but to give it the right nutrition and watch its weight.

It has also been observed that dogs, which live in homes with slippery surfaces, are also going to be prone to get hip difficulties. For example, if you have marble flooring at home, make sure your golden beauty moves around in an environment where they can get a good grip on the surface they are walking on. Sometimes, you will not know that your dog has Hip Dysplasia until there is a lot of wear and tear with age in his muscles, and it begins to become noticeable.

You can operate and have surgery to remove Hip Dysplasia. If it can be done, you should seriously consider this option as it is the only way your dog will be able to lead a normal life. Of course, surgery can be taxing both mentally and physically, and is not a matter to be taken lightly. Golden retrievers can withstand a good amount of pain, and will not show any sign of complaint.

Even though they may be in pain, you will not know it. This is why you need to come forward, take the right decision, and give relief to your dog in the best manner possible with the options open to you.

The German Shepherd is large in size and is one of the most intelligent dogs that one can dream to own. This dog breed is great with children but needs diligent and careful training and socialization.

Socialization is mandatory or else, these dogs tend to become very aggressive and even worse, fear biters.

The German Shepherd always yearns for long walks with its owner and when amply exercised, it keeps perfectly healthy. Games, that involve hiding and hunting objects, too, are recommended to keep the dog in good health. But, physically taxing games should not be played with the German Shepherd immediately after it has had a meal, as that would lead to gastric torsion and even bloat.

The most desired feature that you can possibly get in this dog is that it does not require clipping. A hassle free dog that can be painlessly trained into one of the finest of pets. Its protectiveness towards its family and its potential to be man’s best friend, is quite remarkable.

This breed, however, needs a lot of exercise to stay fit and can suffer a great deal if not given its due share. It also tends to suffer from hip dysplasia and epilepsy.

It is often noticed that the German Shepherd prefers one of its legs to another while walking. More often than not, they are found to favor the hind part of their right leg to their left. The symptoms become evident after obedience training or play sessions. An x-ray would reveal that the dog has been suffering from hip dysplasia.

Veterinarians recommend surgery as the best resort but it is not always feasible owing to high expenses. There are medicines available that go a long way to relieve the German Shepherd of hip dysplasia. However, if it is a serious case then surgery would be a smartest option.

The other common ailment that affects a German Shepherd is epilepsy. The symptoms start to show when the dog suffers from seizures at regular intervals.

Prior to a seizure, the dog first hunts down a cozy corner for itself. Then its eyes will well up, its panting will increase and its mouth will start to drool. Its whole body stiffens and even shakes all over and nothing short of some cuddling by the owner would make it feel safe and secure.

The only remedy, aside from the owner’s love and care, are proper medicines prescribed by a competent vet.

The German Shepherd, a naturally hassle free dog, can be a cause for concern when ill but is usually and undoubtedly one of the best companions that one can ask for.

Examples of the ‘hip sway’ & ‘frog sit’ & the outward pointed toes that Elliot has been having… he has not had x-rays yet to confirm the hip dysplasia, but it’s most likely his problem. Update: Sept. 9th ’09 we did confirm the hip dysplasia with x-rays. ANOTHER UPDATE: (as of Feb ’10): This puppy, at 10 mos old, also has ALLERGIES, CHRONIC DIARRHEA & MULTIPLE GASTRIC UPSETS, a HEART ARRHYTHMIA, & is being evaluated for AN AUTO IMMUNE DISORDER!!!!!!! I don’t forsee him having a long or comfortable life… Anyone w/ extra money want to pay our vet bills??? lol… we’re broke & they don’t care!!! I plan on emailing them for my money back, & see what their response is in regards to this will be….. I’ll post their response here at a later date….. update 3: (5/6/2010): www.flickr.com self explanatory. i emailed the ‘breeders’. still no response. im not thinking that they are going to bother responding either. i added up our vet bills to date & they were $2506.19. Elliot just turned one yr old a couple wks ago!