As pet parents, anything that brings our dog any discomfort is a concern. We always want them to live healthy, pain-free lives, so when something starts to cause them distress, we do all we can to help.
Hip dysplasia in dogs is one of the most common canine orthopedic conditions, especially in medium to large breeds. While it’s often thought of as a problem only experienced by older dogs, hip dysplasia can actually begin developing in puppyhood and progress over time. It can be painful for your adored beast and make movement difficult and uncomfortable.
Knowing this, you probably want to know what it is and what you can do, from the very beginning. Understanding the signs, causes, and support options can help you catch it early and improve your dog’s comfort and mobility.
What is Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?
Hip dysplasia in dogs is a developmental condition where the hip joint does not form properly. In a healthy joint, the ball (femoral head) fits snugly into the socket (acetabulum). With hip dysplasia, this fit is loose, leading to joint instability. Over time, this abnormal movement causes wear and tear, inflammation, pain, and eventually arthritis. Ouch!
Symptoms of hip dysplasia can vary depending on your dog’s age and the severity of the condition. Some dogs show signs early, while others compensate for years before the discomfort becomes obvious to us.
Common signs can include:
- Difficulty standing up or lying down
- Stiffness, especially after rest or in the morning
- Reluctance to run, jump, climb stairs, or get into the car
- Decreased activity or exercise intolerance
- “Bunny hopping” gait when running
- Limping or lameness in the hind legs
- Audible clicking or popping in the hips
- Loss of muscle mass in the hind end
- Behavioural changes such as irritability or restlessness due to pain
What Causes Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is a multifactorial condition, meaning several factors contribute to its development.
Key causes include:
- Genetics: This is the strongest risk factor. Dogs inherit a predisposition for poor hip joint structure.
- Rapid growth: Fast growth in puppies, especially large breeds, can stress developing joints.
- Nutrition: Excess calories, improper calcium-to-phosphorus ratios, or over-supplementation during growth can increase risk.
- Excess weight: Extra body weight places more strain on unstable joints.
- Exercise imbalance: Too much high-impact activity in puppies, or too little muscle-building exercise, can worsen joint instability.
- Environmental factors: Slippery floors and repetitive stress on joints may contribute over time.
While any dog can develop hip dysplasia, it is more common in medium to large breeds, including:
- German Shepherds
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Rottweilers
- Great Danes
- Saint Bernards
- Newfoundlands
- Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Mastiffs
Some smaller breeds and mixed-breed dogs can also be affected, particularly if they carry genetic risk or are overweight.
Conventional Approaches to Hip Dysplasia
Conventionally, treatment depends on the dog’s age, severity of symptoms, and overall health.
Common conventional approaches include:
- Weight management: One of the most important factors in reducing pain and slowing progression.
- Pain relief medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises, hydrotherapy, and stretching can help strengthen muscles and support the joint.
- Joint injections: Options such as corticosteroids or regenerative therapies may be recommended in some cases.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options like femoral head ostectomy (FHO) or total hip replacement may be considered.
Holistic Support for Dogs With Hip Dysplasia
Holistic care focuses on reducing inflammation, supporting joint health, and improving quality of life. You’ll notice that some of the holistic approaches are the same as conventional!
Natural and lifestyle supports may include:
1. Nutrition and Weight Control – A fresh, species-appropriate diet can help reduce systemic inflammation and maintain a healthy weight. Avoid excess calories and focus on high-quality protein to support muscle mass. If your pup could benefit from shedding a little weight, there are some tips for a safe approach in this post.
2. Joint-Supportive Supplements – Supporting the joints is a good idea for any dog, but especially helpful for dogs with joint issues like hip dysplasia. Commonly used holistic supplements include:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin to support cartilage
- MSM for inflammation and joint comfort
- Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation
- Turmeric or curcumin for natural anti-inflammatory support
3. Controlled, Low-Impact Exercise – Regular, gentle movement helps maintain muscle strength and joint stability. Activities such as leash walks, swimming, and underwater treadmill therapy are especially beneficial. Remember, you don’t want to stop movement – movement helps keep things moving!
4. Bodywork and Physical Therapies – Just as with conventional approachs, targeted exercises, hydrotherapy, and stretching can help strengthen muscles and support the joint.
- Acupuncture to reduce pain and inflammation
- Chiropractic care to support proper alignment
- Massage therapy to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation
5. Environmental Modifications – Both for prevention and support, simple changes at home can make a big difference:
- Non-slip rugs or mats on slippery floors
- Orthopedic dog beds for joint support
- Ramps instead of stairs for cars or furniture
Hip dysplasia is a lifelong condition, but with early detection and a well-rounded care plan, many dogs live happy, active lives. Combining conventional veterinary care with holistic support allows you to address pain, mobility, and overall well-being, rather than focusing on symptoms alone.
