Hip dysplasia is the most common orthopedic condition in dogs, affecting up to 50% of large and giant breed dogs to some degree. It occurs when the ball-and-socket hip joint develops abnormally, causing the femoral head to fit loosely in the acetabulum. This laxity leads to abnormal wear, cartilage degradation, inflammation, and eventually painful osteoarthritis.
Causes
- Genetics: The primary factor. Hip dysplasia is polygenic (multiple genes involved) and heritable. Breeding dogs should have OFA or PennHIP evaluation.
- Rapid growth: Large breed puppies growing too fast (overfeeding, excess calcium) increases risk significantly
- Obesity: Extra weight during growth and throughout life accelerates joint deterioration
- Inappropriate exercise: High-impact activity on developing joints (jumping, stairs, slippery floors) before growth plates close
- Nutrition: Excess calories and calcium during growth in genetically predisposed puppies
Symptoms by Stage
| Stage | Age | Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Early/Juvenile | 4-12 months | Bunny-hopping gait, reluctance to climb stairs, hip pain after exercise, decreased activity |
| Moderate | 1-4 years | Stiffness after rest, difficulty rising, reduced range of motion, muscle atrophy in hind legs |
| Severe/Arthritic | Any age (usually 5+) | Chronic lameness, significant muscle loss, audible clicking, reluctance to walk, pain on manipulation |
Diagnosis
- Physical examination: Ortolani test (hip laxity), pain on extension, decreased range of motion
- Radiographs (X-rays): Standard OFA-position radiographs show joint conformation
- PennHIP: Distraction radiography — more sensitive for early detection; can evaluate puppies as young as 16 weeks
Treatment Options
Conservative Management (Mild-Moderate)
- Weight management: The single most impactful intervention. Every pound lost reduces joint force by 4 pounds.
- Exercise modification: Low-impact activity (swimming, controlled walks) instead of running/jumping
- NSAIDs: Carprofen (Rimadyl), meloxicam (Metacam), grapiprant (Galliprant) for pain/inflammation
- Joint supplements: Glucosamine/chondroitin, fish oil (EPA/DHA), adequan injections
- Physical rehabilitation: Underwater treadmill, therapeutic exercises, laser therapy
Surgical Options
| Surgery | Best For | Cost | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) | Small-medium dogs; budget option | $1,500-$3,000 | Good pain relief; reduced range of motion |
| TPO (Triple Pelvic Osteotomy) | Young dogs (<10 months) with laxity but no arthritis | $3,000-$5,000 | Preserves joint; prevents arthritis development |
| THR (Total Hip Replacement) | Severe dysplasia; large dogs | $5,000-$7,000 per hip | Best outcome; near-normal function; gold standard |
| JPS (Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis) | Very young puppies (12-20 weeks) with early laxity | $1,500-$2,500 | Preventive; modifies pelvic growth |
Prevention
- Feed large breed puppy food (controlled calcium and calories)
- Keep puppies lean — never chubby
- Avoid high-impact exercise until growth plates close (12-18 months)
- Provide non-slip surfaces during development
- Choose breeders who screen parents with OFA or PennHIP
Frequently Asked Questions
Can hip dysplasia be cured?
Not without surgery. Conservative management controls pain and slows progression but cannot reverse structural changes. Total hip replacement provides the closest outcome to "cured" — restoring near-normal joint function.
At what age should I screen for hip dysplasia?
PennHIP can evaluate puppies at 16 weeks. OFA certification requires dogs to be 24 months. For at-risk breeds, early PennHIP evaluation allows proactive management or early surgical intervention.
