User:Kaitlyns9/sandbox

Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia (canine) is a polygenic disease that is regularly diagnosed in purebred dogs such as the German Shepherd. Commonly seen symptoms of this disease can include but are not limited to Osteoarthritis and issues with locomotion. The prevalence and hereditary of the disease in German Shepherds can be discussed through the commonly occurring alleles present within the breed. When specific SNPs(single nucleotide polymorphism) are present within alleles of the German Shepherd breed it can lead to Canine Hip Dysplasia(CHD) and in return produces an undesired phenotype. In relation to specific SNPs that cause CHD the most prevalent occurrence of the disease was shown on the site of CFA24. In this location the genotype BICF2S2367279 which is involved with bone health and construction is commonly distorted.

Generally, Canine Hip Dysplasia is not prominent phenotypically until a few years into the German Shepherd lifespan. The canine may have the SNPs present but will not fully develop physical symptoms to the disease until a few weeks into life. The dysmorphia of the joints can begin as early as two weeks of age in which elongation will occur and by three months of age erosion of the cartilage may develop. The degree of dysplasia can be worsened through body condition and fast growth. If a German Shepherd specifically becomes obese or gains weight at a rapid extent the joints may not be able to support the change. An overload of calcium in the diet can contribute to worsening hip dysplasia. Excess calcium contributes to worsening structure of joints which is why a desired calcium to phosphorous ratio is needed.

Osteoarthritis, a common symptom associated with Canine Hip Dysplasia in German Shepherds ultimately results in pain and inflammation. The causes are from bone degradation in which the bone is less rigid, cartilage dissipates and structure of joints becomes weak.

Diet can have a major impact for German Shepherds that are exposed to Canine Hip Dysplasia. Incorporating Omega-3 fatty acid s such as Docosahexaenoic acid(DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA) into the diet can result in improved symptoms of the disease. Omega 3 fatty acids can help decrease inflammation that occurs from osteoarthritis, as well as improvement in locomotion of dogs who posses the disease. EPA and DHA can be supplemented into the diet through fish oils and in return is beneficial for reducing joint inflammation.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate are Nutraceutical s that can also be added into the diet to help treat osteoarthritis and its quality of life reducing effects. Both nutraceuticals help with improvement of cartilage, joint health and repairing of tissues. This inclusion will allow for a stronger support and reduced negative effects of osteoarthritis. Another nutrient that can help improve the structural support of the body in German Shepherds is Vitamin C. Vitamin C contributes to the building blocks of collagen that can help to strengthen the joints.