Ask the Veterinarian - Crunchy French Bulldog
lorihuntdvm March 17th, 2008
French Bulldog Hips ‘Crunch’
I have a male French Bulldog who is 16 mos. old. Since I received him he has always had a noticeable “crunch” palpable over his hind legs at his back while walking. It is not really a click but is obviously some movement at the joint which isn’t smooth.
My vet did not think there was a problem and my dog is quite active and it does not seem to limit him at this time. The only other thing is that while pulling on his lead while on a neighborhood walk he developed some swelling on his foot pad on the right hind leg. The vet gave him a steroid shot but he still, 3 months later, lifts that foot. I have looked at it very carefully and can find nothing obvious.
When he first injured it he had tenderness there and some mild swelling. That is not there now. He favors it at least a few times every day and almost always right after he wakes up in the morning. Most of the time though he runs around the yard like a maniac with no problems.
I’ve read the literature on hip dysplasia and didn’t really think he has this.
What is your opinion?
Dr. Lori writes -
This “crunch” you are describing could be the result of several things, including, but not limited to the following: hip dysplasia, spinal anomalies, spinabifida, perhaps even luxating patellas.
I suggest a good thorough exam by a veterinary orthopedist and some radiographs of his spine and hips to see if any problems may exist and to establish a baseline to compare to in the future. I am glad to know he doesn’t seem affected by it often.
He could also benefit from a joint supplement rich in fatty acids, antioxidants and glucosamine, as could almost all frenchies.
Good Luck to your young man!
