Dog owners from older generations know the fear that accompanies a hip dysplasia diagnosis and the questions that commonly loom. Is my dog doomed to a life of pain and disability? Will I have to put my dog down? Thankfully, veterinary medicine advancements allow for successful treatment in most dogs born with this relatively common condition. The Oliver Animal Hospital south Austin veterinarians share what pet owners need to know about hip dysplasia management options for dogs.

Canine hip dysplasia 101

Hip dysplasia is a developmental disorder that occurs in dogs and several other species, including humans and cats. Puppies are born with normal hip joints, but as they grow, the joint becomes deformed and the hip “ball” on the femur and hip “socket” on the pelvis sit loosely in place. The joint laxity leads to abnormal motion, wears down cartilage lining the joint, and eventually leads to arthritis. 

Any dog can develop hip dysplasia, although purebreds may have a higher incidence, because the cause is considered genetic. Historically, popular large breeds, including Labrador retrievers and German shepherds, were most affected, but pugs, bulldogs, terriers, and other bully- or mastiff-type breeds are now included at the top of the list. 

Hip dysplasia diagnosis and screening in dogs

Although dogs develop hip dysplasia during their puppy growth phase, they are diagnosed at various stages in their lives. Some dogs show signs of joint laxity, arthritis, and pain before their first birthday, while others develop signs during middle or older age. Once owners notice signs, such as limping, weight shifting, hip popping, hip stiffness, refusal to exercise, or a bunny-hopping gait, they must visit their veterinarian for their pet’s thorough orthopedic examination and X-rays, which can diagnose the condition.

Screening tests can identify young dogs with hip dysplasia before they develop disease signs. First, a veterinarian should take standard hip X-rays of skeletally mature dogs (i.e., 1 to 2 years old) that should be evaluated by the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA), to provide a hip soundness grade. Another X-ray test, called PennHip, uses a specialized technique available only at select veterinary offices, but can identify dogs as young as 10 weeks old who will go on to develop hip dysplasia. 

Surgical treatment options for canine hip dysplasia

In many cases, surgery is the best option for restoring normal hip function and preventing or treating joint damage. Four main surgery types can help dogs with hip dysplasia, with the best type for each dog depending on their age, size, activity level, and the presence or absence of hip joint arthritis. Surgical options for hip dysplasia treatment include:

  • Juvenile pubic symphysiodesis — Puppies younger than 18 weeks can have this surgery, which closes a growth plate and allows the hip socket to selectively grow to better join with the hip ball. 
  • Double or triple pelvic osteotomy — This surgery is available for dogs younger than 10 months who do not yet have any joint arthritis. Surgeons cut the pelvis in two or three locations and rotate the segments to cover more of the hip socket on the hip ball.
  • Total hip replacement — Total hip replacement with metal or plastic implants can restore nearly normal hip function in dogs older than a year.
  • Femoral head ostectomy — During this surgery, the ball of the femur is removed, and a “false” joint created by scar tissue is left. This last-resort option for dogs with severe arthritis relieves pain, but does not completely restore normal function.

Medical treatment options for canine hip dysplasia

Medical treatment options can help reduce pain and increase mobility in dogs with mild hip dysplasia, dogs who cannot have surgery, or dogs whose owner does not want to pursue a surgical treatment. They are also helpful adjunct treatments before and after surgery to maintain good joint health. Medical treatments may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory or pain medications
  • Laser therapy
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Alternative therapies (e.g., chiropractic, acupuncture)
  • Oral or injectable joint fluid modifiers (e.g., glucosamine, adequan)
  • Weight control
  • Controlled exercise

Choosing the best treatment path for dogs with hip dysplasia

Our team can help you decide on the best treatment course for your dog diagnosed with hip dysplasia. The cost will likely factor into your decision—surgery can cost several thousand dollars per hip, but medical treatment expenses over the course of a lifetime can also add up. Other factors include your dog’s age, personality, current pain level, and activity level. We may refer you to a veterinary surgeon to discuss options if you’re unsure about the next step.

Research is underway to reveal the genes or gene combinations responsible for hip dysplasia development in specific dog breeds, which will help reduce future incidence. Until we know more about how the disease starts, our Oliver Animal Hospital team will continue to provide pets with the most advanced treatment options. Early detection can prevent joint damage from developing or becoming worse, so call us to schedule a visit for your puppy, or adult or senior dog, or any dog who is lame or has hind end discomfort.