Hip Dysplasia

What is hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a common congenital deformity where the ball of the joint and the socket do not grow at equal rates. This results in an unstable joint that is prone to injury, degeneration and arthritis.

Although all dogs have the potential to develop this condition, large breed dogs are most at risk.

X-rays show the anatomy of the hip joint and are the preferred method to diagnose this condition.

When the diagnosis is made before clinical symptoms develop (stiffness, reluctance to go up and down steps, difficulty getting up, “slowing down”), preventative measures can be taken to manage the condition and reduce the severity of the arthritis and keep the pet more comfortable. These include prescription diets, joint lubricants, and anti-inflammatory medication. In severe cases surgical options are available.

It is good to screen for this disease early, as by the time most dogs show signs, the disease is advanced.