American bulldog hip problems

[myamericanismylife]

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Hi all, I’ve just came across this website, I’m wondering if anyone like myself owns an American bulldog, my boy Titan is 9 in June. Very youthful and healthy looking. Im a worrier when it comes to this lad he’s my pride and joy and the thought of him being in pain really bothers me. I’ve noticed him struggling to sit down I find him readjusting as if he isn’t comfortable sitting, when getting on beds he sort of hangs half on to ask for help with his back legs ( these being a recently occurrence 2 months Mabey but definitely not severe) But he loves a good walk and I see no pain signs when we are out. He’s very fit and healthy. But a year ago he was nuetured he weighed 49kgs and he now weighs well over 55kg. For a good couple of years before he was neutered when he runs he has this bunny hop of his back legs. He’s wined and cried all his life as he is a very spoiled and loved dog so it’s more of a demand cry not a pain cry as he has always been in top condition. He doesn’t have regular vet checks but he has one tomorrow as iam going mention this.
I’m wondering if anyone has any information on American bulldog breed regarding this matter with joints and hip dysplasia as I am aware it can be common in puppies and in senior dogs. Iam a big worrier with my boy and iam reluctant to put him on joint movement even with just his age of joints where not a concern as I don’t believe in medication. Google tells you nothing! All bad. I’ve heard plenty of stories about 8 year old Americans being put down due to hip dysplasia and I just can’t! He is the most precious thing to me.

Honest answers only please!

 

[JoanneF]

I believe it's common in the breed but your vet will probably be able to advise you further.

Keeping his weight down will help a lot. My dog wears a magnet on his collar - I have no idea,whether it works or not, but some people say they find magnetic bracelets helpful for pain so I figured it can't do any harm.

You say you don't believe in medication - but if it gives him relief from pain, is it fair to extend your views to your dog? If he is in pain, what do you think he would want?

 

[Flobo]

I have to agree. But until your vet has had a look at him, it will be hard to say. One of my old dogs had bad arthritis in his hips and we did a 2 week course of anti inflammatory whilst starting him on joint supplements and I also popped a magnetic collar on him, this worked well for him. But of course every dog is different and until you know what the problem is it'll be impossible to know what options you have regarding support and treatment. Something else we have to remember is that animals are generally very stoic when it comes to showing you they are in pain or discomfort, so if you are noticing a change in his gait or mobility then it is always best to get it checked out. Keeping our dogs supported and comfortable as they age is pretty important, regardless of the choices we may make for ourselves, imho.
He is gorgeous btw! One last thing you say he's put on a bit of weight too, keeping him a bit lighter will also be beneficial to his joints.