Puppy "hopping" early signs of dysplasia?

[gemlover]

Hi, there:

My boyfriend and I would very much like to adopt a puppy from a rescue organization. We met the 14 week-old puppy yesterday (a Heinz 57, but she looks 90% yellow lab) and she's perfect for us EXCEPT that she "hops" or "skips" when running or sometimes even when walking on a leash. However, she can also walk normally when in the house. The foster parents say that they've had her checked out at a vet because of the hopping and the vet says she's perfectly healthy. However, in doing our own research with vet clinics and on the internet, we've learned that "hopping" or "skipping" can be early signs of hip dysplasia or of a kneecap condition (whose name currently escapes me).

Can anyone add any input/thoughts? Is it normal for a puppy to "hop"? Or does this probably indicate a problem? FYI, she seems to be in no pain at all and her back legs are strong.

Many thanks. Kim

[mastifflover]

It is not always a sign but I would take her and have her hips and knees xrayed it would be worth the money to know if you have to deal with dysplasia or a luxating patella both are very painful and expensive. The xray will not be a guarantee but will give you some insight. My boy Buddy hopped and his hips and knees showed up clean in the xrays and he also was in no pain.