Murphys’ story - A day in the life of a puppy with hip dysplasia. Part 1: The first few months with Murphy

Murphy is a loved puppy coming to his new home at 8 weeks old, Debbie was looking forward to hiking and long walks with Murphy when he was old enough. Murphy was a normal, happy, confident and friendly puppy. He is insured and registered with a vet who he saw at regular intervals.

Debbie had a few concerns about Murphy as he was growing which she mentioned to the vet.

1. Murphy didn’t like his walks, Debbie took everything at his pace. Once he was outside he started to enjoy exploring the environment.
2. Murphy walked and trotted with a very wiggly bottom, his tail is always wagging but as he walked his bottom moved from side to side. 
3. Murphy was not food orientated, he was fussy with his food despite being a labrador. 

Debbie did absolutely the right thing speaking to the vet about all her concerns. Puppies don’t move like adult dogs, they are less coordinated, when they wag their tail their whole body follows along. Or could this have been the a sign that his hips weren’t moving as well? it’s difficult to know but something that needs looking into further with gait analysis and range of movement testing. Watch out for our gait blog coming soon

Not enjoying walks can be many things, they can be overwhelmed by their environment, they can anxious about new things, and another reason is they could be in pain. Watch out for our blog on common puppy behaviours coming soon

There are many reasons dogs can be fussy eaters, sometimes they are picky, sometimes they are nervous and unsure therefore not settled enough to eat. However puppy nutrition is really important and expert advice needs to be sort. Both under feeding and over feeding when a dog is growing can be detrimental. Watch out for our blog on nutrition coming soon.

It is really important to discuss any concerns with your vet, take video of the problem whether it be walking, trotting or  moving at home, take video of them being reluctant to walk and ask for nutritional advice if they aren’t eating, always seem hungry or are not the ideal weight. Puppy fat is literally what it says - a fat puppy so don’t be mistaken in thinking it is normal for a puppy to be chubby. The evidence shows an overweight puppy and/or adolescent dog will always have a tendency to be overweight throughout its life and as a result of this will always have to eat less than the recommended amounts given on the guidance of dog foods. 

If you are still concerned about your dogs movement ask you vet for a referral to a qualified veterinary physiotherapist use RAMP and ACPAT websites to search for local therapist. Feel free to contact us on jwvetphysio@icloud.com I’m always happy to advice no matter your location.