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Hip Dysplasia, HD (Malformation of the Hip Joint) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Legs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. (HD) is a genetically determined disease in which the hip joint of dogs is not correctly formed, leading to instability and misalignment. This can lead to pain, lameness, and ultimately osteoarthritis.

The most important facts at a glance

Hip dysplasia (HD) in dogs is a disease that has both genetic and environmental causes. It occurs when the hip joint does not fit together properly, leading to increased stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. and wear. Certain large and fast-growing dog breeds such as German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are particularly susceptible. Environmental factors such as diet and exercise can further increase the risk. Symptoms of HD include lameness, reluctance to move, and abnormal sitting positions. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by a physical examination and imaging procedures such as X-rays. Treatment depends on the severity of the disease and ranges from conservative measures such as physiotherapyVeterinary physiotherapy encompasses a range of treatment methods aimed at improving the mobility and well-being of animals through exercise, massage, and other manual techniques. and weight management to surgical interventions such as a Total Hip Replacement. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the timely diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and the chosen therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., with many dogs being able to lead a pain-free life with appropriate treatment. Preventive measures include the selectionSelection refers to the process of natural or artificial selection of specific individuals for reproduction, based on desired genetic traits. In breeding, this is applied to promote specific characteristics in dogs and cats. of breeding animals without HD, balanced nutrition, and controlled exercise. Research focuses on genetic and nutritional factors as well as new therapeutic approaches such as stem cell therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. Advances in early detection and minimally invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. surgery contribute to improving the quality of life of affected dogs.

Causes

Hip dysplasia is a complex disease caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The disease occurs when the hip joint – consisting of the femoral headThe femoral head is the ball-shaped upper part of the femur that fits into the acetabulum of the pelvis to form the hip joint. and the acetabulum – does not fit together properly, leading to increased stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. and wear.

Genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. plays a crucial role in the development of HD. Certain dog breeds are more susceptible, including large and fast-growing breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Saint Bernards. The genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. can be explained by the inheritance of several genes that influence the structure and development of the hip joints.

Environmental factors such as diet and exercise also contribute to the development of HD. An unbalanced diet that leads to rapid growth can increase the risk. Overweight puts additional stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. on the joints and can worsen the symptoms. Incorrect or excessive exercise during the growth phase can also be detrimental as it can impair joint development.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

Hindlimb Muscle Atrophy

The symptoms of hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. vary depending on the severity of the disease and the age of the affected dog. Some dogs show signs as early as puppyhood, while others develop symptoms later in life.

The most common symptoms include difficulty getting up or lying down, lameness in one or both hind legs, reduced activity and joy of movement, as well as a “hopping” gait. Some dogs also show signs of pain when walking or jumping and avoid climbing stairs.

As the disease progresses, muscle atrophyMuscle atrophy is the loss of muscle mass that can be caused by inactivity, malnutrition, or certain diseases. In dogs and cats, muscle atrophy can occur due to chronic diseases, aging, or after prolonged immobilization. in the hind legs and a visible misalignment of the pelvis can occur. In severe cases, dogs develop significant joint stiffness and osteoarthritis, which can significantly impair the quality of life.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. usually begins with a detailed medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. and a physical examination by the veterinarian. The dog’s musculoskeletal system is examined to detect signs of pain, lameness, or muscle wasting.

X-rays are the main diagnostic tool to assess the structure of the hip joints. They provide information about the position of the femoral headThe femoral head is the ball-shaped upper part of the femur that fits into the acetabulum of the pelvis to form the hip joint. in the acetabulum and show whether there are signs of osteoarthritis or other bony changes. In some cases, a CT or MRI scan may be necessary to obtain more detailed information.

In addition to imaging diagnostics, special tests such as the Ortolani test can be performed to assess the instability of the joint. An accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is crucial to determine the severity of the disease and plan appropriate treatment.

Therapy

The treatment of hip dysplasia depends on the severity of the disease and the age of the dog. In mild cases, conservative therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. may be sufficient, while severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Conservative treatments include weight management to reduce stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. on the joints, as well as physiotherapyVeterinary physiotherapy encompasses a range of treatment methods aimed at improving the mobility and well-being of animals through exercise, massage, and other manual techniques. and special exercises to strengthen the muscles. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

In more severe cases, various surgical options are available. One of the most common operations is the Triple Pelvic OsteotomyAn osteotomy is a surgical procedure in which a bone is cut or removed to correct alignment or improve a deformed bone structure. (TPO), which is performed especially in young dogs with not yet pronounced osteoarthritis. Another option is Total Hip Replacement (THR), in which the damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial one.

The success of the treatment depends on various factors, including the age of the dog, the severity of the disease, and the chosen therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. option. Close cooperation with the veterinarian is crucial to select the best possible treatment.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. varies depending on the severity of the disease and the type of treatment. With early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and appropriate therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., many dogs can lead a relatively normal and pain-free life.

Dogs undergoing conservative treatment can achieve a good quality of life through weight management, physiotherapyVeterinary physiotherapy encompasses a range of treatment methods aimed at improving the mobility and well-being of animals through exercise, massage, and other manual techniques., and pain management. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Surgical interventions, especially Total Hip Replacement, usually offer a good to excellent prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop., with many dogs being able to lead a pain-free life again after recovery. However, the decision for an operation should be carefully considered as it involves risks and a recovery period.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. begins with the selectionSelection refers to the process of natural or artificial selection of specific individuals for reproduction, based on desired genetic traits. In breeding, this is applied to promote specific characteristics in dogs and cats. of suitable breeding animals, as genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. plays a major role. Breeders should only use dogs for breeding that are free of hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. in order to minimize the probability of passing on the disease.

A balanced diet and avoiding overweight are crucial to maintain joint health. Puppies should not be overfed to avoid too rapid growth, and body weight should be monitored throughout life.

Appropriate exercise is important to strengthen the muscles and support the joints. Excessive physical stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., especially in young dogs, should be avoided. Instead, moderate and controlled exercise programs should be promoted.

Regular veterinary examinations can help to detect the disease early and take appropriate measures for preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. or treatment. Through a combination of genetic selectionSelection refers to the process of natural or artificial selection of specific individuals for reproduction, based on desired genetic traits. In breeding, this is applied to promote specific characteristics in dogs and cats., appropriate care, and early intervention, the effects of hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. on the lives of dogs can be significantly reduced.

Outlook on current research

Hip dysplasia (HD) in dogs is a complex clinical picture characterized by a malformation of the hip joint. Current research focuses on the genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors that contribute to the development of the disease. There are significant advances in genetic research, where scientists have identified specific genes that are associated with an increased risk of HD. These genetic findings offer the opportunity to improve breeding programs to minimize the risk of HD in future generations.

In addition to genetic research, much attention is paid to the influence of diet and body weight. Studies have shown that a balanced diet and the control of body weight can be crucial to reduce the risk of developing HD. Specially formulated diets containing joint health-promoting nutrients are increasingly recommended as a preventive measure.

Another area of research is the investigation of the biomechanical aspects of hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip.. This examines how the mechanical stresses on the hip joint contribute to the damage of the articular cartilage and the worsening of the disease. These studies could lead to innovative therapeutic approaches that aim to reduce mechanical stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being..

New therapeutic approaches, including the use of stem cells and regenerative medicine, are also being explored. These methods aim to repair damaged tissue and promote the regeneration of cartilage. While these approaches are still in the early stages of research, they offer promising possibilities for the future treatment of HD.

In surgical research, new techniques are continuously being developed and existing procedures refined to improve the quality of life of dogs with severe HD. Minimally invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. surgery and improved prosthesis technologies are examples of advances in this area.

Finally, there are also efforts to improve the early detection of HD. The development of new diagnostic tools and imaging techniques could enable veterinarians to detect HD earlier and treat it accordingly to slow down the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. (HD) in dogs? Hip dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. is a genetically determined disease in which a dog’s hip joint is not properly developed. This leads to a faulty fit of the joint, which can lead to pain and limited mobility over time.
What symptoms indicate HD? The most common symptoms include lameness in the hind legs, difficulty getting up, reduced activity, avoidance of jumps, and a “wobbly” gait. These symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip..
How is HD diagnosed? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through a combination of physical examinations and imaging procedures such as X-rays. These help to assess the degree of misalignment and any damage in the joint.
What treatment options are there for HD? Treatment can be conservative, through weight management and pain therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., or surgical. Surgical options include femoral head resectionA femoral head resection is a surgical procedure in which the femoral head is removed. This can be considered as a treatment for severe hip joint problems such as hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis in dogs and cats to relieve Pain and improve mobility., triple osteotomyAn osteotomy is a surgical procedure in which a bone is cut or removed to correct alignment or improve a deformed bone structure., and the use of hip prostheses.
Can HD be cured? HD cannot be cured, but it can be treated well. With the right treatment, many dogs can lead a happy and pain-free life.
Which breeds are most commonly affected by HD? Larger breeds, such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Golden Retrievers, are more commonly affected. However, HD can also occur in small breeds.
How can I reduce the risk of HD in my dog? A healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and a healthy body weight can reduce the risk. Choosing a puppy from HD-free breeding lines is also important.
Does diet play a role in the development of HD? Yes, a balanced diet that is specifically tailored to the needs of puppies and adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs can help reduce the risk of developing HD. Overfeeding, especially during the growth phase, should be avoided.
Can alternative therapies help with HD? Some alternative therapies, such as physiotherapyVeterinary physiotherapy encompasses a range of treatment methods aimed at improving the mobility and well-being of animals through exercise, massage, and other manual techniques., acupuncture, and dietary supplements, can help to relieve the symptoms, but should always be used in consultation with a veterinarian.
Is HD recognizable in puppies? HD can be difficult to recognize in puppies, as the symptoms often do not appear until the age of six months or older. However, early examinations and imaging procedures can help to detect signs early.