Hip Dysplasia Prevention: Supplements & Safe Exercise
Protecting your Labradoodle's joints from puppyhood to senior years. Verified advice on growth plates, stairs, and joint supplements.
Protecting the Hips
Both Labrador Retrievers and Standard Poodles are high-risk breeds for Hip Dysplasia, a malformation of the hip socket that leads to crippling arthritis. This means your Labradoodle carries a “double dose” of genetic risk.
While genetics load the gun, environment pulls the trigger. How you raise your puppy in the first 12 months dramatically impacts their orthopedic future.
The Rule of “Growth Plates”
A puppy’s bones are soft. The growth plates do not close until 12-18 months of age. High-impact activity before this time can permanently damage the joint architecture.
The Forbidden List (Until 12 Months)
- No forced running: jogging or biking with you.
- No repetitive jumping: catching frisbees or jumping out of SUVs.
- Limit stairs: Carry them up/down stairs when possible.
Supplementation Protocol
You don’t need to wait for a limp to start joint support. Veterinary orthopedic specialists increasingly recommend prophylactic supplementation for large breeds.
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Look for high-quality, bioavailable sources. Dasuquin is the clinical standard often recommended by vets.
Weight Management
The single most effective preventative measure is keeping your Labradoodle lean. Excess weight acts as a “force multiplier” on the joints. You should be able to feel (but not see) the ribs easily.
Expert Tip: If your breeder did not provide OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) scores for both parents, assume your puppy is at risk and exercise extreme caution during the growth phase.