Hip dysplasia in dogs

Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition in which the ball-and-socket hip joint does not form correctly.

Over time this can lead to joint instability, discomfort and degenerative change in the hip.

It is most common in medium and large breeds and often becomes apparent while a dog is still growing, although some animals only show signs when they are older.

Common signs to watch for

• Hindlimb lameness or uneven weight-bearing
• A hopping or bounding stride where both back legs move together
• Stiffness after rest or on cold mornings
• Reluctance to climb stairs, jump into cars or rise from lying down
• A change in activity level or less enthusiasm for walks
• Muscle wasting along the hindquarters (narrower appearance behind the ribs)
• A shaky, waddling or swaying gait

These signs can vary in severity. Some dogs only show mild stiffness, while others have clear pain and difficulty moving.

Why you should act

Early recognition helps reduce discomfort and slows further joint damage. Prompt assessment by a veterinary professional allows you to explore ways to manage pain, maintain mobility and plan long-term care. Leaving progressive signs unaddressed can result in reduced quality of life and more complex treatment later on.

What to do next

• Make an appointment with your vet to discuss the signs you’ve noticed and the timeline of symptoms.
• Keep a brief diary of when signs occur, which activities make things worse and any changes in behaviour or appetite — this helps your vet build a picture of your dog’s progress.
• Avoid strenuous play, repetitive high-impact exercise and long runs until a veterinary assessment has been made.
• Consider weight control if your dog is overweight; carrying extra weight increases load on the hips. Your vet can advise on safe diet changes.

What a vet may discuss or do

At the clinic your vet will take a history and perform a physical and orthopaedic examination. They may recommend imaging, usually X-rays, to assess hip conformation and the presence of arthritis. Blood tests are sometimes used to check general health before any procedures.

Management options vary with severity and the dog’s age. Typical areas your vet might cover include:

• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication prescribed and monitored by the vet
• Weight and conditioning plans to reduce strain on the joints
• Moderated exercise plans and activity advice tailored to your dog
• Physiotherapy or hydrotherapy referrals to support muscle development and mobility
• Joint-supportive supplements and other non-prescription aids — your vet can advise on realistic expectations
• Referral to a veterinary orthopaedic surgeon if surgical options are being considered

Your vet should explain the potential benefits and risks of each approach and discuss likely costs and follow-up requirements.

When to contact a vet urgently

Contact your vet urgently if your dog develops any of the following:

• Sudden inability to use one or both hind legs or refuses to bear weight
• Severe, obvious pain such as crying out when moving or when the hip is touched
• Marked collapse, extreme weakness or loss of coordination
• Signs of systemic illness such as a high temperature, very low energy or loss of appetite

These may indicate a major injury, an acute worsening of the joint, or another problem requiring immediate care.

Long-term care considerations

Hip dysplasia is often managed rather than cured. Many dogs respond well to a combination of medical and lifestyle measures that preserve comfort and mobility for years. Key elements include:

• Regular low-impact exercise to maintain muscle tone without overstressing joints (your vet or physio can advise)
• A stable, healthy body weight through tailored feeding and portion control
• Periodic reassessment — your vet will want to monitor pain, mobility and any progression of degenerative change
• Supportive therapies such as physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and appropriate bedding or ramps to ease movement

In some cases surgery is an option. Your vet or a specialist will explain the different procedures, likely outcomes and recovery requirements. Decisions about surgery depend on the dog’s age, severity of signs, general health and the family’s circumstances.

Prevention and breeding considerations

Hip dysplasia has a genetic component. Responsible breeders use screening programmes to assess hip health before mating, which helps reduce the number of affected puppies. If you’re choosing a puppy from a susceptible breed, ask for documentation of parents’ hip assessments and seek a reputable breeder who screens for inherited conditions.

For owners of at-risk breeds, early advice from your vet on feeding, exercise and growth management can reduce the risk of early-onset clinical problems.

Cost and insurance

Treatment and ongoing management can involve routine veterinary visits, diagnostic imaging, medications, physiotherapy and sometimes surgery. Costs vary widely depending on the plan chosen. Taking out pet insurance early — before any signs develop — can help cover some expenses if your dog is later diagnosed with hip dysplasia. Discuss likely costs and funding options openly with your practice.

Useful questions to ask your vet

• What do you think is causing my dog’s signs and what tests do you recommend?
• What are the possible management options and their risks and benefits?
• Is this condition likely to progress, and what signs should prompt earlier review?
• Would my dog benefit from referral to a specialist or from rehabilitation therapy?
• How can I safely manage exercise and what activities should I avoid?
• Should I consider screening if I plan to breed my dog?

FAQ

• Can hip dysplasia be cured?There is no simple cure for naturally occurring hip dysplasia, but many dogs can be kept comfortable and active with tailored management. Surgical options can significantly improve quality of life for some patients; your vet can explain suitability.
• At what age do signs usually start?Signs frequently appear during periods of rapid growth, often within the first year, but some dogs only develop noticeable symptoms later when arthritis develops.
• Is my breed likely to be affected?Medium and large breeds have a higher risk, including Labradors, German Shepherds, Retrievers and several working and mountain breeds. However, any dog can be affected.
• Will exercise make it worse?High-impact or repetitive activities can aggravate symptoms. Controlled, low-impact exercise is usually beneficial, but activity plans should be personalised in discussion with your vet.
• Should I screen my dog before breeding?Yes. Screening of hip health is recommended before breeding to reduce the chance of passing on inherited joint problems. Ask your vet or breed club about recognised testing schemes.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s hips, speak to your veterinary practice for an assessment and tailored plan.

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