Understanding the Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Puppies

Hip dysplasia in puppies is a progressive, degenerative disease of the hip joints, and is the most common cause of rear-end lameness in dogs. Canine hip dysplasia is most often seen in large breeds like German Shepherd dogs, Saint Bernards, and Greater Swiss Mountain dogs, but a dog of any size and both male and female dogs may be affected.

The exact cause of canine hip dysplasia is unknown, but it is believed to have a genetic basis. Puppies born to parents with hip dysplasia are more likely to develop the condition; however, dogs with normal parents can also be affected.

What Is Canine Hip Dysplasia?

The pelvis supports the head of the femur (thigh bone) in a cup-like socket known as the hip. Puppies are typically born with normal hips, but as they grow, the hip joint alignment can progressively worsen.

As a puppy matures, improper alignment due to bone abnormalities or loose ligaments and muscles can lead to joint wear and tear, causing a shallow socket and loose joints.

Signs and Symptoms

Severe hip dysplasia may become evident as early as four months of age but is typically seen in puppies aged 9 months to 1 year. It causes limping, limb favoring, and difficulty in rising, running, or jumping. Affected puppies may have an unusual wobbly gait or "bunny hop" to reduce joint stress.

The severity of symptoms can vary. Some puppies may show few or no signs, and mild cases might remain undiagnosed until the dog is older. The extent of joint degeneration depends on the puppy's activity level. While normal hips aren't harmed by play, those with dysplasia could worsen with excessive strain.

Veterinarians consider hip dysplasia "polygenetic," meaning it is influenced by several genes. Lifestyle, nutrition, body weight, and activity level might also impact the condition.

Diagnosis

Outward signs may point to a problem, but for a conclusive diagnosis, X-rays are performed while the puppy is under anesthesia. The puppy is placed on its back and the veterinarian looks for the typical arthritic changes and subluxation (laxity) of the joint. Some changes may not become evident until the pup reaches 2 years old, and experts say there may be considerable changes from 6 to 9 months up to 1 year.

That’s why the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) screening and certification cannot be done prior to the age of 2 years in dogs. The OFA provides a consulting service for purebred dog owners and breeders, through which it reviews hip X-rays provided by an owner to evaluate the dog's conformation and, when normal, certifies that fact.

The PennHip testing method, developed by Dr. Gail Smith, a veterinary orthopedic specialist at the University of Pennsylvania, also positions the pet on its back, but then fits a metal and acrylic form, called a “distracter,” between the animal’s hips. This brace positions the pup’s rear legs sort of like a frog pose, to replicate what happens when standing. The resulting X-ray helps gauge the pet’s laxity score or “distraction index” and allows veterinarians to determine the degree of joint looseness even before bone changes from damage occur. Whatever laxity or looseness it has at 4 months, it’ll have for the rest of its life.

Responsible breeders test dogs for hip dysplasia before breeding to minimize the risk in puppies. Certification processes include sending X-rays to the OFA or PennHip registries. OFA involves one X-ray and three radiologists, while PennHip uses computer analysis to compare with breed averages.

Management of Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia cannot be cured, but treatment focuses on relieving pain and improving joint function. The success of treatment varies based on the condition's severity.

Mild to moderate hip dysplasia cases can often be managed with gentle exercise, a balanced diet, and pain relievers like buffered aspirin or veterinarian-prescribed Rimadyl. Moderate exercise can help improve muscle tone and alleviate joint stress.

Engage your puppy with short walks to maintain fitness, and consider swimming as an ideal exercise. Avoid jumping and prolonged running to reduce strain. Keeping your puppy lean can prevent additional joint stress, and massages may provide comfort.

Severe hip dysplasia may require surgical intervention to modify bones or muscles, reducing pain and potentially improving movement. These procedures can enhance the dog's quality of life but may not fully restore joint function.