Shoulder dysplasia is a genetically inherited disease resulting from the inappropriate fit of the head of the humerus that makes up the shoulder joint and the joint space of the scapula. During the course of the disease, degenerative joint disease, arthrosis of the shoulder joint, interspersed with cartilage wear and cartilage deposits, occurs in a joint that is constantly partially sprained due to the misalignment.
Occurrence of shoulder dysplasia
It can occur in any breed of dog, but is more common in beagle, poodle, English and French bulldog, havagnese, dachshund and Bernese shepherd breeds. Shoulder dysplasia (especially in small dogs) can be asymptomatic (breeding dysplasia) but can also cause lameness of the shoulder joint (clinical shoulder dysplasia).
Shoulder dysplasia in dogs
Early symptoms of shoulder joint dysplasia may include forelimb lameness in an 8-10 month old dog, but more common is elderly shoulder dysplasia associated with shoulder joint subluxation (dislocation) and arthrosis (“worn out joint”). Pre-screening for shoulder dysplasia is carried out at the age of 9 months and definitive screening after one year of age. After the onset of symptoms, an X-ray is always taken to check the fit and dislocation of the shoulder joint and any pre-existing arthrosis. In the case of a complete dislocation, in fresh cases (traumatic dislocation from shoulder dysplasia), the joint can be surgically stabilised. For shoulder arthrosis in old age, medication is recommended. If medication is ineffective, surgical incision of the shoulder joint (shoulder arthrodesis) may be considered.
Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) is a hereditary disease of large dogs, which is associated with degeneration of the articular cartilage of the femoral head, which forms the shoulder joint, and possibly with cartilage detachment. The breeds most commonly affected are the Great Dane, Irish Setter, English Setter, Caucasian Shepherd, Irish Wolf, Yugoslavian Wolfhound, Malamute, Husky, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Pointer, Bull Mastiff and Neapolitan Mastiff.
Appearance of shoulder dysplasia
The first symptoms of the disease begin at 7-9 months, in the form of recurring front limb lameness. Stretching the shoulder joints is painful. The disease can be examined by X-ray. The X-ray shows signs of cartilage detachment in the back of the articular surface of the humerus. The disease can be successfully treated surgically by removing the detached part of cartilage and curettage of the place of detachment.
Treatment of shoulder dysplasia
Whatever dysplasia rating our pet has received, it will greatly improve its condition if:
- Body weight is maintained at the ideal level for the breed, with the help of an appropriately modified dysplastic diet, and a satisfactory exercise programme .
However, it is important to avoid overloading the puppy when moving it, i.e. if it gets tired, do not force the movement. In addition, a sedentary lifestyle is not good either, because the normal development of the gluteal muscles and hip joints requires adequate movement. - We give him a non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory and analgesic supplement rich in natural anti-cartilage substances, such as K9 InuFlex® or K9 FullFlex™.
In the case of a breeder with a mild dysplasia, it is good to know that this is not a particularly bad thing. It may even make your dog a breeding recommendation for the breed and allow it to live out its life without symptoms.
In the majority of moderate cases detected in time, the further aggravation of the disease discovered at a young age can be reduced by various medicinal or nutritional supplement treatment, as well as with the help of an appropriately modified diet and exercise program.
Even in cases of severe dysplasia, there are various traditional (modern surgical procedures) and alternative (golden ball implantation (GBI)) solutions that greatly improve the condition of our pet.
With proper feeding, moving the dog correctly, and with the right food supplement the chance of developing dysplasia and the aggravation of existing symptoms can be greatly reduced!
K9 FullFlex™
Food supplement rich in anti-cartilage wear substances, glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and chondroitin sulfate.
K9 FullFlex™ contains, in addition to the immune-boosting medicinal mushrooms (K9 Immunity™) contained in it, a large amount of high-quality natural substances specifically designed to regenerate and keep joints (connective tissues, cartilage and joints) healthy.
Areas of application
K9 FullFlex
- For large, fast-growing dog breeds, from a young age, to nourish and protect the bones, cartilage, and tendons, and to improve the general ability to move.
- To alleviate the effects of increased physical stress on the joints and connective tissues of racing and working dogs.
- For breeders, for the healthy development of the skeletal system (maintenance) of the individuals that most closely carry the breed traits.
- In aging dogs, to preserve the elasticity and strength of the connective tissues, to delay natural wear and tear, and to preserve the dogs’ mobility.
- For the additional treatment of injury and inflammation of connective tissues (bones, cartilage, joints, etc.), as well as various orthopedic surgical interventions, to shorten the regeneration period and to reduce pain.
- Inappropriate housing and feeding, diseases due to ageing or diseases specific to the breed (arthritis, osteoarthritis, various types of dysplasia, etc.) prevention, treatment and alleviation of symptoms.
Main ingredients of K9 FullFlex™ (4000 mg chewable tablet)
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250 mg
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Helps to keep joints, cartilage and tendons healthy. It is effective in helping cartilage regenerate and preventing further damage by maintaining and lubricating it.
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Calcium carbonate
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200 mg
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A compound used to replace calcium, which is essential for the health of bones and joints. This breast relieves inflammation.
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200 mg
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Chondroitin sulphate is a major constituent of cartilage tissue due to its excellent water-binding capacity. Its water-binding capacity ensures the mechanical-elastic properties of cartilage.
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(with Beta 1.3-1.6 glucan content)
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185 mg
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An immune-boosting ingredient containing medicinal mushrooms concentrates that, in addition to its general immune-boosting effects, accelerates the rebuilding process and provides the body with protection to prevent cartilage wear and tear.
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185 mg
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Thanks to its antioxidant action, it helps protect cells and supports the immune system. It slows down the ageing of cells, helps protect the body’s connective tissue fibres, inhibits wrinkling and preserves the skin’s water content. Its production decreases with age and external supplementation is recommended.
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Protein obtained from hydrolyzed eggshell membrane (ESM)
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100 mg
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If either, it is one of the key active ingredients in K9 FullFlex™. It is produced by hydrolysis from a thin rubbery membrane on the inner wall of the eggshell for improved bioavailability. This protein solution has unique properties that make it one of the most important ingredients in the product, responsible for healthy joints. Among other things, the high ESM content (100 mg per wafer) distinguishes K9 FullFlex™ from similar products.
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Turmeric
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90 mg
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Turmeric’s natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it a popular ingredient in joint care products, but its antioxidant content and immune-boosting effects are not negligible.
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| Boswellia serrata extract |
70 mg
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It is a natural NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) pain reliever. It acts on the same receptors as morphine, making it an immediate, long-lasting and powerful pain reliever. And it’s completely safe!
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Bovine (milk) immune protein concentrate Colostrum
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25 mg
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Piper nigrum
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10 mg
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It can help reduce joint inflammation and muscle stiffness.
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As well as
Calcium propionate, linseed, glycerin, lecithin, arrowroot, rosemary extract, vegetable oils, flavouring.
Contains eggs and milk!
