As a physiotherapist working with puppies, it's crucial to monitor their growth and development carefully. Puppies go through rapid changes in their musculoskeletal system, and early detection of abnormalities can prevent future mobility issues. Here are key things to watch out for when assessing and supporting a puppy's development.
1. Growth Plate Development and Joint Health
Growth plates are soft areas at the ends of long bones that allow puppies to grow. These plates remain open until around 12-18 months, depending on the breed. Overexertion, high-impact activities, or injuries during this phase can lead to fractures or growth abnormalities.
Signs to Watch For:
Limping or favouring a limb
Swollen joints
Difficulty getting up or lying down
Uneven gait
Encourage controlled, low-impact exercises such as swimming and gentle walking to protect growing joints.
2. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Risks
Large breed puppies, such as Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds, are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. These hereditary conditions cause improper joint development, leading to pain and arthritis.
Red Flags:
Bunny hopping when running
Stiffness after resting
Reduced range of motion in hips or elbows
Reluctance to play or exercise
Early intervention with physiotherapy techniques like massage, hydrotherapy, and strength-building exercises can help manage symptoms and improve mobility.
3. Paw Positioning and Gait Abnormalities
A puppy’s paw placement and walking style reveal a lot about musculoskeletal health. Splayed feet, knuckling, or dragging toes may indicate neurological or orthopaedic concerns.
Things to Observe:
Paws turning outward excessively
Uncoordinated or wobbly walking
Dragging nails on the ground
Regular gait analysis and balance exercises can help address these issues before they worsen.
4. Overexertion and Exercise-Induced Injuries
Puppies have boundless energy, but over-exercising them can lead to joint and soft tissue injuries. High-impact activities like jumping from heights, running on hard surfaces, or excessive fetch sessions should be minimised.
Warning Signs of Overuse Injuries:
Swelling or tenderness in limbs
Lethargy after exercise
Sudden reluctance to walk or play
Structured play and physiotherapist-guided exercise plans can support safe, healthy development.
5. Spinal and Postural Development Issues
Certain breeds, like Dachshunds and French Bulldogs, are predisposed to spinal issues such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Monitoring posture and movement can help detect early signs of spinal stress.
Indicators of Potential Problems:
Arched back or hunched posture
Yelping when touched on the back
Sudden weakness in the hind legs
Core strengthening exercises and proper weight management are essential for spinal health.
6. Obesity and Its Impact on Joint Health
Puppies that gain excess weight too quickly put added stress on their developing joints, increasing the risk of arthritis and mobility issues.
Signs of Excess Weight:
Difficulty feeling the ribs under the skin
Less defined waistline
Fatigue or reluctance to move
A physiotherapist can help guide proper exercise and conditioning to prevent obesity-related complications.
Conclusion
Monitoring a puppy’s physical development is essential for preventing long-term health issues. Physiotherapists play a crucial role in detecting early signs of joint, muscle, and neurological concerns, ensuring puppies grow into healthy, active adults.
By integrating physiotherapy techniques such as controlled exercises, massage, hydrotherapy, and weight management, you can help puppies thrive while educating pet owners on the importance of early intervention.
Preventing Mobility Issues in Puppies: Physiotherapy Do’s & Don’ts
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