OFA Excellent vs OFA hips?

[Amstaffer]

Just a questions about hips...

I have read the OFA website as to the structural difference between the different rating for hips by OFA. However what I would like to know is the practical application.

In a dogs life, how much difference is there? Are dogs with fair hips much more likely to have him problems in old age? or is the Excellent vs Fair mainly a concern for passing on hip problems?

Thanks for any input

 

[OutlineACDs]

Whether the dogs is graded a Fair, Good, or an Excellent it still passed it's hip exam. A failing grade is just that, it will be graded either mild, moderate, or severely dysplastic.

There are varying degrees of how the ball fits into the socket, and it can even vary by the breed of dog. OFA Lists dogs with stilted gaits as usually having a shallower fit within the socket.

From what I understand, the passing grades are considered "normal" basically, the dog can function normally and is considered to have healthy hips. I don't think a fair will have any more problems in old age (in theory) than a dog with a good or excellent rating.

There are other factors to take into account when you talk about joint problems or pain. A dog who has been overweight most of its life, even if its hips are graded as excellent will probably have more joint pain than a thinner dog. A dog who is worked hard on an almost daily basis will probably develop joint pain. There are just lots of variables. I don't think there is a hard, fast answer to your question. The best anyone can do is keep their dog in shape, supplement with glucosamine, fish oil, vitamin c etc if needed, and only breed if their dog passes the hip exams.

 

[Amstaffer]

thanks