TL;DR: Hip sensitivity in dogs is a sign of discomfort typically caused by injuries or chronic conditions like hip dysplasia. While usually not an emergency, immediate veterinary care is required if your dog cannot walk or shows signs of extreme pain.
What does it mean if my dog has hip sensitivity?
Flinching, tensing, or pulling away when touched near the hips is a physical sign of discomfort or localized pain. This reaction is often a protective reflex called guarding. In dogs, hip sensitivity can be caused by a variety of issues including muscle strains, soft tissue bruising, or chronic degenerative conditions such as hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis. It may also indicate nerve-related issues or skin sensitivities in that specific area.
When is hip sensitivity in dogs considered a veterinary emergency?
- The urgency level for a dog flinching near the hips is generally low if they are still able to walk, eat, and use the bathroom normally.
- Seek immediate veterinary care if the sensitivity is accompanied by a sudden inability to use the hind legs.
- Emergency care is necessary if your dog exhibits extreme lethargy or is crying out in pain.
How can a photo or video help triage my dog's hip pain?
- A video of your dog walking or moving from a sitting to a standing position allows a professional to observe their gait and posture.
- Visuals can reveal subtle signs of muscle loss (atrophy), swelling, or abnormal weight-shifting.
- Providing media helps a veterinary professional determine the potential severity of the condition and how soon an appointment is needed.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Flinching when touched near the hips in dogs can be attributed to several causes. Hip dislocations and pelvic fractures should be considered, and can be palpated per rectum. Craniodorsal hip dislocation, the most common type, or femoral neck/proximal femur fractures should be suspected if the affected limb appears shorter. Pelvic fractures can be associated with sciatic nerve paralysis, while hip dislocation may involve obturator nerve paralysis. Iliopsoas muscle or tendon trauma can also cause pain at the proximal medial aspect of the thigh, especially during hip extension and internal rotation; ultrasonography may reveal muscle fiber disruption, and radiographs may reveal dystrophic calcifications at the tendon insertion. Finally, primary or secondary muscle tumors should be considered.
Chapter: Obstetrics, Orthopedics, Neurology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1189)