Hip dysplasia in dogs is a developmental disorder of the hip joint (coxofemoral joint), commonly seen in large-breed dogs. The condition occurs when joint laxity causes instability, leading to abnormal movement, friction, and micro-fractures in the cartilage. Over time, this results in pain, lameness, and the development of osteoarthritis.

Early Screening for Hip Dysplasia

In young puppies, signs of pain may appear during walking. A “clicking” sound may be heard when the dog places weight on the limb, indicating laxity. The PennHip radiographic method is an effective screening tool that can detect joint looseness as early as 16 weeks of age. This test measures joint structure and calculates the degree of laxity.

Common Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Symptoms of hip dysplasia can vary depending on severity and the individual dog. Some frequent clinical signs include:

• Decreased physical activity
• Reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs
• Lameness in one or both hind limbs
• A characteristic “waddling” gait
• Loss of muscle mass, especially in the thighs

Some dogs may show no obvious signs of discomfort, while others may exhibit symptoms as early as 6 to 8 months of age.

Treatment Options for Hip Dysplasia

Treatment depends on the dog’s age, pain level, and the condition of the hip joints. Two main approaches exist:

Medical Management

The goal of medical treatment is to slow the progression of arthritis and manage discomfort. This includes:

• Weight control: Maintaining an ideal body weight reduces stress on the joints.
• Joint-supportive diet: Nutrition rich in omega-3s and glucosamine helps maintain joint health.
• Chondroprotective supplements: These support cartilage integrity.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Prescribed to manage pain as needed.

Surgical Treatment

When medical management is insufficient, surgery may be necessary. The most common options include:

• Juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS): Performed before 18 weeks of age to reduce joint laxity.
• Triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO): Improves coverage of the femoral head to reduce subluxation.
• Femoral head and neck excision (FHO) or total hip replacement (THR): Reserved for older dogs or those with advanced osteoarthritis.

Prevention and Lifestyle Recommendations

Preventing or managing hip dysplasia involves several strategies:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Avoid excess pressure on the hips.
• Feed a large-breed puppy formula: Ensures balanced growth.
• Avoid high-impact activities: Encourage low-impact exercise like swimming.
• Use joint supplements: To help protect joint structures over time.

Causes and Risk Factors

Hip dysplasia has a strong genetic component, but other contributors include:

• Rapid growth
• High-calorie diets
• Repetitive joint trauma

Dogs of predisposed breeds should be monitored closely throughout growth.

Salvage Procedures for Advanced Cases

In severe cases where preventive surgery is no longer an option, several salvage procedures are available:

• Femoral head and neck excision: Suitable for small to medium dogs with recurring lameness.
• Craniodorsal denervation: For older, less active dogs to manage chronic pain.
• Total hip replacement: Replaces the damaged joint with a prosthetic implant for full mobility.

Conclusion

Hip dysplasia in dogs is a serious condition that can drastically affect mobility and quality of life. Early diagnosis, tailored treatment plans, and preventive measures are essential to managing the condition. If you suspect your dog is showing signs of hip dysplasia, consult your veterinarian for a complete evaluation and personalized care plan.