Academy · Conditions
Hip dysplasia in dogs (HD): signs, diagnosis and early indicators
Hip dysplasia can develop during growth, even if the dog does not yet show any obvious symptoms.
Hip dysplasia (HD) is one of the most common orthopaedic developmental disorders in dogs. It affects the hip joint and can lead to pain, restricted movement and osteoarthritis in the long term. However, not every affected dog shows typical symptoms early on. Find out which signs can point to hip dysplasia, how it is diagnosed and what role early detection and objective gait analysis play.
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What is hip dysplasia in dogs?
Hip dysplasia (HD) is a developmental disorder of the hip joint in which the femoral head and the socket do not fit together properly, often with increased joint laxity. Genetic predisposition and influences during growth both play a role in its development. Over time, osteoarthritis develops. The diagnosis is made by X-ray. If detected early, the course can be influenced by weight management, exercise, physiotherapy and, if necessary, surgery.
Important: hip dysplasia can be examined by a vet as early as puppyhood. The minimum ages for official HD screening, often 12 or 18 months, do not apply to early diagnostic investigation. The specific requirements depend on the breed and the respective breed club or screening scheme.
At a glance:
- Affected: mainly medium-sized and large breeds
- Cause: predisposition and influences during growth
- Diagnosis: orthopaedic examination and diagnostic imaging; investigation is possible as early as puppyhood.
- Classification: HD grades A (free) to E (severe) under the FCI scheme
In detail
How can I tell if my dog has hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia can show through various changes in movement and behaviour. Possible signs include:
- ‘Bunny hopping’ at a gallop: both hind legs push off at the same time
- Difficulty getting up, climbing stairs and jumping
- The dog soon sits or lies down on walks
- Poorly developed muscles in the hindquarters
Many young dogs show none of these signs for a long time.
How is hip dysplasia diagnosed?
Hip dysplasia is diagnosed by an orthopaedic examination and X-rays of the hip joints. Certain examination techniques require sedation or general anaesthesia so that the dog can be positioned correctly and the muscles are sufficiently relaxed. Diagnostic investigation is possible as early as puppyhood. For official HD screening, however, minimum ages apply depending on the breed and breed club, often 12 or 18 months. Under the FCI scheme, which is used in continental Europe, hip joints are usually graded A (no HD), B (borderline), C (mild HD), D (moderate HD) and E (severe HD). Other countries use their own schemes, such as the BVA/KC hip score in the UK.
How is hip dysplasia treated?
Conservatively, with weight management, adapted exercise, physiotherapy and pain management. Surgically, depending on age and findings, for example with a pelvic osteotomy in young dogs or a total hip replacement. Some procedures are only possible within a narrow window during growth, which is why early indicators are so valuable.
What does gait analysis show in hip dysplasia?
Gait analysis does not diagnose HD. It shows how the dog moves. In a longitudinal study, dogs of various breeds were examined repeatedly with inertial sensors during their development. The results showed that dogs later diagnosed with hip dysplasia had higher variability in selected kinematic parameters than dogs without HD findings. These differences could contribute to research into early functional indicators in future. The LupoGait Puppy add-on builds on this research. With LupoGait Puppy, puppies can be measured from week 8 of life at the breeder and from week 10 or 12 with the owner.
Frequently asked questions
Hip dysplasia can be investigated as early as puppyhood with an orthopaedic examination and suitable diagnostic imaging. For official HD screening, minimum ages apply depending on the breed and breed club.
No, the malformation remains. With good treatment, many dogs live long lives with few problems.
Mainly medium-sized and large breeds, for example German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
No. Gait analysis can record and document changes in motor development, but it cannot diagnose hip dysplasia. This requires a veterinary examination and suitable diagnostic imaging.
Detect hip dysplasia early. Understand motor development.
Hip dysplasia can develop before obvious symptoms appear. An early veterinary examination is essential to detect possible abnormal development of the hip joint. In addition, an objective gait analysis can help to document motor development and reveal changes over time.