Hip Dysplasia
Canine Hip Dysplasia, CHD is a skeletal developmental problem in dogs. Since the Newfoundland is considered a giant breed, it is particularly prone to orthopedic problems. A high incidence occurs in larger, rapidly growing dogs or larger working/sporting breeds. The disorder is the result of the upper portion (ball) of the hind legs not fitting properly into the socket of the hip. Dogs are not born with CHD but as they grow laxity of muscles and ligaments around the joint in combination with poor fitness produces excess movement. The instability within the joint itself allows the hipbone to pull apart in growth. A general misconception is that dysplasia is a form of arthritis that affects the hips. Rather severe osteoarthritis is a secondary result of hip dysplasia. It occurs when the bones rub together resulting in irregular bone growth and wear causing osteoarthritis. While many dysplastic dogs can live long, productive lives with very little distress, others will require anti-inflammatory painkillers.
Since research has shown that dysplasia is primary genetic, study your prospective pup’s ancestry. If it’s parents and grandparents are nondysplastic, there’s a fairly good chance that it will be too.
Although it cannot be detected at birth severe cases may be detectable at six months. The average age for the first symptoms to be displayed is around two years old. Outward signs range from slight to severe pain including, difficulty getting up from lying or seated position, climbing stairs, extending back legs, a side to side sway of the crop, a resistance to jumping, a waddling or sway in the gait, lameness especially following exercise, and pushing on the rump may cause the pelvis to drop. Commonly these symptoms are more pronounced on cold, damp days. These are all a result of deterioration of the joint that limit a dog's mobility. CHD is an inherited trait that is influenced by several genes (polygenic). Neither the environment nor how you raise your puppy can cause hip dysplasia, however, it could play a role when and perhaps if he/she develops outward symptoms.
Some such factors that could worsen symptoms are rough play, jumping, climbing, excess weight gain/rapid growth, calcium supplementation (which increases novel remodeling) or forced distance running especially on tarmac, asphalt or hard surfaces.
There are treatments available. Some non-surgical treatments would help to improve function and reduce pain and inflammation. The administration of drugs such as aspirin, phenylbutazone ("bute") or NSAIDs and steroids could all be administered but numerous side effects result from oral tablets. Also, some drugs are available for injection. Many cases can be helped by surgical procedure. This should be discussed with a physician to determine the best course of action for your pet's particular case.
Heart Disease
Another serious problem that can affect Newfoundlands is heart disease. This is also prevalent in other breeds. Like hip dysplasia studies have found that it is inherited. But a Newf that is declared disease free can still produce it in their puppies. Heart disease is not present at birth but develops as the pup grows. If it is present, it is detectable as a murmur, ranging from slight to severe.
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