Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
Hip dysplasia is a developmental orthopedic condition where the hip joint forms loosely and wears abnormally over time. It is most common in medium and large breed dogs, but any dog can be affected.
Usually not an emergency, but it should be evaluated by a veterinarian
Hip dysplasia is typically a chronic condition, not a true emergency. Book a veterinary visit if your dog shows hind-end weakness, stiffness, limping, trouble rising, or exercise intolerance. Seek urgent care sooner if your dog suddenly cannot bear weight, seems very painful, cries when moving, or has rapid worsening of mobility.
Symptoms to Watch For
Bunny-hopping gait
A rabbit-like run or hopping movement in the rear legs can suggest painful or unstable hips.
Hind leg lameness
Some dogs limp, wobble, or shift weight off the back end, especially after activity.
Trouble getting up
Dogs may struggle to rise from lying down or sitting because the hips are stiff or painful.
Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
Avoiding stairs, the car, furniture, or play can be an early sign of hip discomfort.
Exercise intolerance
Your dog may tire more quickly, lag on walks, or seem sore after activity.
Hip pain or stiffness
Pain, decreased range of motion, or stiffness after rest often becomes more noticeable as arthritis develops.
What Causes Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is primarily an inherited developmental disorder in which the ball-and-socket hip joint develops with too much looseness (laxity). Over time, that instability damages cartilage and leads to osteoarthritis and chronic pain. Environmental factors can influence how severely the condition shows up in a dog that is already genetically predisposed.
Risk factors include: • Genetics and family history • Medium and large breed dogs, especially Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, Saint Bernards, Bulldogs, and other large breeds • Rapid growth during puppyhood • Overfeeding and excess calorie intake in growing dogs • Overweight or obesity, which increases stress on the hip joints • In some cases, traumatic cartilage damage may contribute
Hip dysplasia often starts in puppyhood, but some dogs do not show obvious signs until they are older and arthritis has progressed.
How It's Diagnosed
Your veterinarian will start with a history and orthopedic exam, looking for pain, reduced range of motion, muscle loss, hind-end weakness, and joint laxity. Some dogs have a positive Ortolani sign, which can suggest hip looseness.
Diagnosis usually includes: • Orthopedic examination and gait assessment • Hip radiographs (X-rays), often the preferred diagnostic test • Sedation or anesthesia for properly positioned hip X-rays in many dogs • In some cases, special radiographic views or stress radiographs to evaluate laxity and plan treatment
At the appointment, your vet may also discuss your dog's age, breed, body condition, activity level, and whether arthritis is already present. Early diagnosis matters because certain joint-preserving surgeries are only options in young puppies before significant arthritis develops.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on your dog's age, size, pain level, degree of arthritis, and lifestyle. Many dogs can be managed without surgery, while others benefit from orthopedic referral.
Common treatment approaches include: • Weight management to keep your dog lean • Veterinary-prescribed pain control, often including NSAIDs when appropriate • Physical rehabilitation and low-impact exercise such as controlled walks or swimming • Activity modification, including avoiding repetitive high-impact jumping when painful • Joint-supportive nutrition or supplements recommended by your veterinarian • Multimodal pain management for chronic osteoarthritis
Surgical options may include: • Juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS) in very young puppies diagnosed early • Triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) in selected young dogs before arthritis is advanced • Femoral head ostectomy (FHO) / femoral head and neck ostectomy in some dogs, more commonly smaller patients • Total hip replacement (THR), often considered for severely affected dogs, especially larger dogs
Call your vet if your dog seems painful, slows down on walks, or is having more trouble rising. Treatment plans should be individualized, and medication choices should always come from your veterinarian.
Living with Hip Dysplasia
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hip dysplasia in dogs an emergency?
Can a dog live a normal life with hip dysplasia?
What breeds are more likely to get hip dysplasia?
How do vets diagnose hip dysplasia?
Does hip dysplasia always require surgery?
At what age do symptoms start?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.