The term “hip dysplasia” brings terror in the hearts of dog parents. It is a very common condition vets are now observing among large and medium-large breed dogs in cities. Hip dysplasia in dogs is not just common in adult dogs but also among puppies.
Hip dysplasia in dogs can be painful and uncomfortable for all pups and dogs. When it remains undiagnosed and untreated, hip dysplasia can reduce the quality of a dog’s life irrespective of their age, breed and size.
According to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), hip dysplasia is one of the most common causes of lameness and arthritis in large breed dogs, though it can occur in dogs of all sizes.
The good news is that you can learn all about dog hip dysplasia right here including the signs/symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, management and prevention.
What is Hip Dysplasia in Dogs and Puppies?
Hip dysplasia is a rather common skeletal condition in dogs and pups.
That’s right! Even puppies can have hip dysplasia. In fact, this condition begins during the growth stage of a pup, especially of a medium-large and large breed.
Hip dysplasia results in the loosening of the hip joint that causes pain and discomfort during movement.
The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint. Think of it as a disproportionate growth that does not allow the ball and the socket to grow in sync. The ball and socket of the joint grind instead of sliding smoothly!
When it remains undiagnosed in puppyhood, it leads to arthritis, limited range of mobility and muscle atrophy in the back legs in adulthood.
What Causes Hip Dysplasia in Dogs and Pups?
A bulk of research shows that hip dysplasia in dogs and pups is controlled by genetic factors.
Although it is more common in large breed dogs, not all large breed dogs experience this condition.
At the same time, a small breed dog whose parents suffer(ed) from hip dysplasia has a higher chance of developing the condition.
Other factors such as sudden growth spurts, obesity, unbalanced nutrition and type of exercise do increase the chances of an already at-risk pup developing hip dysplasia.
Which Breeds are More Prone to Hip Dysplasia?
It is common knowledge that large dog breeds are more likely to develop hip dysplasia, but some small breeds may also develop the condition due to genetics.
Here are 10 popular breeds prone to hip dysplasia –
- German Shepherds
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Great Dane
- Corgi (Pembroke Welsh and Cardigan)
- French Bulldog
- English Bulldog
- Saint Bernard
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Rottweilers
Several other breeds may also experience hip dysplasia. If you own a dog of another breed or a mixed breed, you need to get their joint health checked up when they are growing puppies.
Genetic predisposition, rapid growth during puppyhood, obesity, and poor nutrition can significantly increase risk.
What are Some Visible Signs and Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?
Puppies and young adult dogs are too busy playing around and being silly to show severe signs of joint distress. However, you need to develop a keen eye to see the telltale signs of hip dysplasia, such as –
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty in getting up, jumping and climbing stairs
- Lameness of the back legs (may be occasional)
- Loss of muscle mass from the back legs
- Excess enlargement of shoulder muscles
- Stiffness of the back joints
- Limping or “bunny hop” gait
- Cracking and popping sound of the joints
- Unnatural sitting positions
Some of these signs are only visible in cases of severe discomfort in adult dogs. Puppies with hip dysplasia may not show any of these signs.
Mild cases may be managed medically, but as symptoms worsen or conservative treatments fail, surgical options become necessary to preserve a good quality of life.
You should consult a veterinarian near you to learn more about the joint health of your pup.
How is Hip Dysplasia Diagnosed?
1. Clinical Examination: Your vet will assess gait, joint flexibility, pain response, and muscular symmetry.
2. Imaging:
- X-rays remain the gold standard
- CT or MRI scans may be used in complex or surgical planning cases
3. Blood Tests: The veterinarian should also recommend blood tests. If your dog’s joints are painful and swollen, there will be multiple biomarkers in their blood.
The veterinarian can confirm the level of pain and swelling, and decide the course of treatment for hip dysplasia from the results of all these tests.
What are the Treatment Options for Hip Dysplasia in Dogs (Pups and Adults)?
Hip dysplasia is a treatable and, sometimes, curable condition in puppies and dogs. Your veterinarian is the best person to decide the course of treatment for your dog.
Oral Medication and Supplements for Hip Dysplasia
Early diagnosis often means oral medication and supplements along with rehabilitative therapy to minimise the damage. However, medication and supplements cannot undo the damage already experienced by the hip joint.
Any puppy or dog with hip dysplasia may receive medication for pain and swelling management. Some of these medications and supplements may continue for months or even years.
It may take several weeks and multiple medications to reduce the pain and discomfort.
If your pup or dog is already on medication for hip dysplasia do not stop them without consulting the veterinarian.
Prescription Food and Special Diet for Hip Dysplasia
Thankfully, pet parents now have the option of choosing from multiple brands and types of food that cater to joint health.
Your veterinarian will recommend special joint health management food (dry, wet or both) for your dog/pupper depending on their health needs.
Many of the veterinary prescription foods have omega-3-fatty acids, chondroitin and glucosamine that modify joint fluids.
Your dog may also receive weight management food that helps control their weight in case obesity is a contributing factor to their distress.
Types of Hip Dysplasia Surgeries in Dogs
If your dog’s hip dysplasia is severe your veterinarian may recommend surgery. While there are multiple surgery options available, senior veterinarians and veterinary surgeons typically recommend the following for dogs depending on their health, age and other physiological conditions.
Total Hip Replacement (THR)
- Most advanced and effective surgery
- The entire hip joint is replaced with a prosthetic implant
- Suitable for medium to large breed dogs with severe arthritis
Benefits:
- Restores near-normal joint function
- Relieves pain permanently
- Over 90% success rate in experienced hands
Drawbacks:
- High cost
- Requires extensive post-op care
- Implant-related risks like loosening or infection
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)
- Removal of the femoral head (ball of the hip joint), allowing a false joint to form
- Ideal for small to medium-sized dogs or as a salvage procedure
Benefits:
- Pain relief without implant
- Lower cost than THR
- Can be done even in cases with existing arthritis
Drawbacks:
- Doesn’t restore full joint mechanics
- Dogs may develop a limp or altered gait
- Physical therapy is crucial for success
Double or Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (DPO/TPO)
- Performed in puppies aged 6–12 months with early hip laxity but no arthritis
- The pelvic bones are cut and rotated to improve socket coverage over the femoral head
Benefits:
- Prevents progression of dysplasia
- Restores normal hip function
- Delays or eliminates need for future surgery
Drawbacks:
-
- Requires early diagnosis
- Not suitable once arthritis has developed
Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS)
- A preventive surgical procedure performed in very young puppies (typically under 20 weeks of age) who show early signs of hip laxity.
- It involves prematurely closing a growth plate in the pubic bone, which causes the pelvis to rotate as the puppy grows.
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive
- Short surgery and recovery time
- Significantly improves joint stability
- Reduces the risk of developing hip dysplasia
- Can eliminate or delay the need for major surgery
Drawbacks:
- Extremely age-sensitive; must be performed before 20 weeks of age
Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy for Hip Dysplasia
Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy should only be performed after the veterinarian has recommended it. The intensity and duration of the therapies should be strictly as per recommendations.
The exercises should be guided by professional canine therapists. You should restrict your dog from running, jumping, leaping and excess walking.
Your veterinary surgeon may recommend physiotherapy and/or hydrotherapy for your dog after a successful surgery as well. Do not stop or change the exercises suddenly without talking to your veterinarian.
When Is Surgery for Hip Dysplasia Recommended?
Surgery is typically considered when:
- Conservative treatments (pain meds, joint supplements, weight loss, physiotherapy) fail to control symptoms
- The dog shows chronic pain or increasing lameness
- There’s radiographic evidence of severe joint degeneration
- The dog is young and shows early signs of joint instability
A 2020 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) emphasized that surgical outcomes for hip dysplasia are optimal when intervention occurs before end-stage arthritis sets in.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Hip Dysplasia Surgery in Dogs
Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline After Hip Dysplasia Surgery
| Time Frame | What to Expect | Your Role |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1–2 | Rest, wound healing, no exercise | Administer medications, restrict movement, clean wound |
| Week 3–6 | Begin gentle leash walks and rehab | Start rehab/physio, monitor gait and appetite |
| Week 6–12 | Steady improvement, increased strength | Longer walks, introduce light play |
| 3–6 months | Return to near-normal function | Gradually resume daily activities |
What to Expect After Surgery for Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?
In the first 24-72 hours, most dogs are groggy, mildly swollen at the surgical site, and may show reduced appetite. Pain is managed through prescribed medications, and rest is critical during this time. A bandage may be placed over the surgical wound and needs to be kept clean and dry. Pet parents should restrict movement entirely during this period.
How to Help Your Dog Recover After Hip Dysplasia Surgery?
- Provide a Safe Recovery Space: Confine your dog to a soft, padded, and quiet area where movement is limited. Use non-slip flooring or rugs to prevent injury.
- Follow Medication and Wound Care Guidelines: Complete the full course of antibiotics and pain relief. Prevent your dog from licking or chewing the surgical site using an e-collar if needed.
- Commit to Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation is vital. Begin with passive range-of-motion exercises, then progress to hydrotherapy and controlled walking. Professional physiotherapy is recommended for optimal results.
- Nutrition and Weight Control: Excess weight puts additional strain on healing joints. Your vet may suggest a prescription diet or joint supplements to support recovery.
- Monitor Progress and Watch for Red Flags: Contact your vet if you observe:
- Excessive swelling or wound discharge
- Lethargy or persistent pain
- Loss of appetite
- Limping that worsens instead of improves
Recovery takes 8–16 weeks depending on the procedure and the individual dog. With your support, most dogs return to a pain-free, active life.
What is the Success Rate of Hip Dysplasia Surgery in Dogs?
| Surgery Type | Pain Relief | Return to Activity | Long-Term Success |
|---|---|---|---|
| THR | Excellent | Full | Over 90% |
| FHO | Good | Moderate to High | 70% to 90% (smaller breeds) |
| DPO/TPO | Excellent | Full | Over 85% when done early |
Hip Dysplasia Surgery Cost Considerations in India
| Procedure/Surgery | Cost Range in INR |
|---|---|
| THR | ₹1,80,000 – ₹2,50,000 |
| FHO | ₹25,000 – ₹60,000 |
| DPO/TPO | ₹60,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
The cost of hip dysplasia surgery in India can vary dramatically depending upon –
- The chosen procedure
- The dog’s size, breed, age and health condition
- The dog’s pre-existing conditions and comorbidities
- The additional medications, laboratory tests and imaging tests
These are some costs that very few people are ready to bear no matter how much they love their pupper. Many have to forego surgical options even though a surgery can reduce the pain and discomfort permanently.
Therefore, it is always prudent to opt for pet health insurance once you adopt a new puppy.
The cost of hip dysplasia surgeries vary based on location, surgeon experience, and post-operative care inclusions.
Conservative Care vs. Hip Dysplasia Surgery: When to Choose What
Choose Surgery When:
- Pain is persistent and worsening
- The dog is young and surgery can be curative
- There’s a goal of restoring athletic function
Choose Conservative Care When:
- Dysplasia is mild or early-stage
- Dog is a senior with poor anesthetic tolerance
- Pet parents cannot commit to surgery costs or rehab
FAQs about Hip Dysplasia Surgery and Treatment in Dogs
Will my dog walk normally again after hip dysplasia surgery?
Yes. Most dogs, especially after THR or early DPO, return to full function. Even after FHO, many dogs live pain-free with only minor gait changes.
Can hip dysplasia be prevented?
Not entirely, but early screening, maintaining healthy weight, proper nutrition, and regulated exercise in growing puppies can help reduce severity.
Is it ever too late for hip dysplasia surgery?
If your dog is otherwise healthy, even older dogs benefit significantly from hip surgery, particularly THR.
How long does recovery take after hip surgery in dogs?
Most dogs recover in 8–16 weeks, depending on the surgery type, age, and how consistently rehab is followed.
Will my dog need surgery on both hips?
Not always. Many dogs compensate well with one hip fixed. The second hip is treated only if symptoms persist.
Is hip surgery painful for dogs?
Mild post-op discomfort is expected, but pain is well-managed with medication. Dogs usually feel better within days.
Can my dog avoid hip dysplasia surgery with supplements and exercise?
In mild cases, yes. But in moderate to severe dysplasia, conservative care may delay—not eliminate—the need for surgery.
Are there non-surgical treatments for hip dysplasia that actually work?
Yes, options like weight control, joint supplements, hydrotherapy, and pain meds help in early or mild cases.
Conclusion: A Life Beyond Pain from Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia can be overwhelming, but advances in veterinary orthopedics have made recovery possible for thousands of dogs. Whether it’s a young pup showing early signs or a senior dog struggling to move, the right surgical choice can restore joy, mobility, and comfort—often for years to come.
At Vetic, we guide every pet parent through this decision with empathy, clarity, and evidence-based care.