Hi! I have a 9 week old Labrador puppy that we got from a good breeder last week. I took him to his first vet appointment today and the vet was concerned that "his hips are smaller than what is usual" and mentioned that this may mean he has hip dysplasia. Both of his parents tested excellent on their OFAs. He doesn't bunny hop or show any signs of discomfort. He's 12lbs and otherwise happy and healthy. The vet really couldn't give me any other tangible concern or reason for thinking that he has bad hips other than they looked small to her. Now I'm a bit stressed. I love this little puppy so much, he has a wonderful temperament and is otherwise perfect for us... but we got him specifically for dog sports (agility, dock diving, nose work, etc.) as well as duck hunting, so bad hips would prevent him from being able to do those safely and comfortably. From my understanding, we can't diagnose with x-rays until he is older. I've already reached out to the breeder, who said he'd happily take him back since there is a health concern. I've very torn - small hips? Has anyone else heard of a vet making this observation?
Hi MJS - welcome! What a vague and worrying thing for you to be told. First up - any time you aren't comfortable or clear on the information given by your vet, it's always okay to ask them for more information and/or get a second opinion. Next - do take a look at these articles. https://www.thelabradorsite.com/hip-dysplasiaimproving-the-odds/ https://www.thelabradorsite.com/hip-dysplasia-protecting-your-labrador-puppy/ They have advice on reducing the risk of hip trouble for Lab puppies - actions you can take now to help protect his hips. If his hips are fine, none of this caution will do any harm. And if they aren't, how you manage his weight and his activity over the next months can help minimise the damage. I do hope they're helpful, and that you're able to get some good news at future appointments.
You don't diagnose hip dysplasia in a 9 week old puppy! It's a puppy and his joints have not developed yet! Never heard of "small hips", I'd let the puppy be a puppy and do x-rays (at an ortho, not your vet, because from what he is saying I'd doubt his knowledge in orthopedics is scarce at least) under sedation and proper positioning of the dog.
