Roko – Preventive Elbow & Hip X-rays

Roko visited us for preventive elbow and hip radiographs.

Breeds such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Cane Corsos, Labradors, and many other large-breed dogs should ideally — if not necessarily — undergo preventive X-rays of these joints.

The reason is that these breeds have a genetic predisposition to hip or elbow dysplasia.

Recommended age for preventive X-rays:
– Hip: from 4 to 10 months of age
– Elbow: from 6 to 10 months of age

If dysplasia is diagnosed, corrective orthopedic surgery may be an option, depending on the patient’s age.

Main symptoms of a dog with dysplasia:
– Lameness in one or more limbs from a young age without any prior trauma.
– “Bunny hopping”: a characteristic running style where both hind limbs move together in a hopping motion, similar to how a rabbit runs.