Labradors hip clicking but vet says nothing is wrong?

Question

My 10.5 month old labs hips sound like they're clicking when he walks. There are no other obvious signs of what I think may be hip dysplasia and vet says he couldnt find anything wrong with him whe he stretched his back legs, but the clicking is constant each time he walks. Occasionally his 2 back legs move at the same time when running but this seems normal when looking at other retrievers, and he moves in a snake like manner. He's occasionally slower in running than other dogs but mainly smaller ones. Vet hasnt done an xray and charged me £70 to tell me nothing really wrong, bit lame in bottom of leg and to give him rest and painkillers for a week so am reluctant to take him back if its nothing. Any tips?

Answer 1

Get a new vet. This one doesn't have a CLUE!

Answer 2

Has your vet not suggested to have x-rays done? That would be the first thing he would suggest. If your really concerned why not get a second opinion. You also must remember if your dog is quite old, it would happen and I have read up on labs they do suffer with hip dysplasia.

My boss has a lab and his about 15yrs old, can hardly stand on his hind legs, can hardly go down the stairs without assistance, but he wont put the poor dog out of its missery. The dog is half blind and deaf. I hope your dog is not in the same condition as this one.

I would get a second opinion. Money shouldnt really be an issue if you really love your dog.

Answer 3

I would have an xray done my dog has degenerative meylopothy which started with me noticing that he was having some trouble gettin up from a laying down he now walks very strangly but he is not in pain. Your dog however could have hip displasia and or arthritis that needs to be treated or else the dog will be in pain. If you don't trust this vet get other recomendations from people you trust and go see another vet.

Answer 4

Either get the vet to do proper hip scoring xrays or take the dog to another vet who will do them. The vet can't say there's no hip dysplasia just from physical examination. I would go to another vet personally. Obviously something isn't right, it's no good just be told nothing's wrong when you know there is. Furthermore, it's your prerogative to see a vet you're happy with.

Chalice

Answer 5

If the vet says your puppy is all good, then you're good to go. However, I'd say that if the cough persists for more than a week or gets worse, take the puppy back and insist on a thorough checkup.

Answer 6

Definately get a new vet and have some x-rays. That is the only way to tell. It sounds like it could be to me since those are some symptoms. Good luck

Answer 7

If this doesn't resolve after a week of pain meds and rest go get a second opinion. If he is having this many problems at his young age something is wrong. This isn't normal, Should have x-ray. vet should be checking for knee and hip problems.

Answer 8

Could it be luxating patella? I'm not sure if Labs can have that problem, but that's what it sounds like to me (the clicking sound and back leg action...one of my dogs had a very mild case that went away on it's own.). Edit: Yes, labs can have it.

Answer 9

Joint clicking and 'bunny hopping' (running with both back legs) can be signs of hip dysplasia. The ONLY way do diagnose HD is through x-ray. I suggest you consult an orthopedic vet as apposed to your regular vet to run your dogs x-rays.

Even if your dog is diagnosed with HD, it is not a death sentence. It can be managed through joint supplements and a careful, controlled exercise regime.

Answer 10

so