Hip dysplasia refers to hip laxity or instability in young dogs, which often progresses to hip arthritis and dysfunction with age. It is diagnosed frequently in dogs and appears to be genetic. Radiographs and palpation of the hips are most often used to diagnose the condition
Depending on the pet’s age at diagnosis and severity of disease, different surgical interventions may be an option for correcting hip instability, replacing the hip, or alleviating pain associated with hip instability and arthritis. The sooner a pet with hip dysplasia can be evaluated by a veterinary surgeon, the better the chances are of identifying good treatment options.
Medical management for hip dysplasia may include ideal body weight management, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Importantly, medical management does not fix the hip laxity or instability, so the joint disease will continue to progress.