Is hip dysplasia hereditary?

Hip dysplasia has a strong hereditary component and certain breeds are at higher risk. If you have concerns about genetics, consult your vet or a breeding specialist to assess the risk.

How can I tell at home whether my pet is in hip pain?

Look for limping, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump or a decline in activity level. Film the behaviour and share the video with your vet for further assessment.

What tests are used to confirm a hip problem?

X-rays are the primary diagnostic tool. A CT scan or additional imaging may be arranged if needed. Blood tests are also performed before any surgery to evaluate overall health.

How long does conservative treatment work, and is it effective?

Conservative treatment can relieve symptoms and slow progression, but outcomes vary between individuals and the severity of the condition. It needs to be combined with weight management and rehabilitation, with regular vet check-ups to monitor progress.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Hip Dysplasia in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, X-Ray Diagnosis & Care Guide [2025]

Hip dysplasia is a common hereditary orthopaedic condition in large-breed dogs that causes hip laxity and degenerative joint disease. Treatment ranges from weight management and pain control to total hip replacement, depending on severity.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: OFA, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Requires immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Hind legs suddenly cannot get up or completely lose the ability to bear weight
•Persistent severe crying or an obvious expression of pain
•Unable to urinate or defecate on their own, with signs of distress

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Intermittent limping with a noticeably shortened hind-leg stride
•Clear signs of discomfort when getting up or jumping
•Reduced activity, unwilling to run or play

01What signs indicate something is wrong?

Hip dysplasia often causes chronic or intermittent lameness and pain that fluctuates with activity levels and weather. Imaging is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Lameness in one or both hind legs with a noticeable change in gait
Increased pain when rising, jumping, or going up and down stairs
Reduced activity level — no longer interested in running or playing
Shortened hind-limb stride, trembling or unsteadiness while walking
Stiffness or restricted movement after cold weather or prolonged rest
If symptoms persist or worsen, arrange an orthopaedic evaluation promptly

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Sudden inability to rise or complete loss of weight-bearing in the hind limbs
⚠️ Severe pain, continuous crying out, or complete refusal to walk
⚠️ Obvious inability to urinate or defecate independently, accompanied by signs of distress

02How can I assess the situation at home? Key observations and criteria for seeking emergency care

Continuously observing and recording changes in your pet's behaviour and pain levels at home — along with videos and timestamps — is extremely helpful for your vet's assessment.

Note the date and time symptoms first appeared and when they worsen
Film your pet walking from the front and side — about 30 seconds each
Observe and record any changes in appetite, alertness and activity level
Weigh your pet or estimate weight changes, and log feeding amounts and treats
Watch for any changes or difficulty with urination or defecation
If something seems off, book an appointment at a clinic with X-ray capability

03How will the vet diagnose this? Common diagnostic tests

The vet will combine a physical examination with imaging to assess hip joint structure and function, and determine whether further intervention is needed.

Physical examination

assessing joint range of motion, pain location and muscle condition

X-ray

evaluating the shape of the acetabulum and femoral head, and the joint space

CT scan may be arranged when a more detailed assessment of bone and joint structure is needed

Blood and biochemistry panel

evaluating overall health and anaesthetic risk

Urinalysis

ruling out other urinary or metabolic issues

04How is it treated and managed after diagnosis? Medication, dietary adjustments and care guide

Treatment options range from conservative management to surgery, with the focus on pain control, restoration of function and long-term monitoring.

Conservative management: weight control, environmental modifications and physical rehabilitation
Medication must be assessed and prescribed by a vet, with regular follow-up visits to monitor response
Surgical options may be considered for severe structural abnormalities or persistent pain
Post-operative care includes activity restriction, rehabilitation and monitoring of functional recovery
Regular check-ups with imaging (e.g. X-ray) to track changes in the joint over time
Discuss an individualised treatment and rehabilitation plan with an orthopaedic specialist

05What should I prepare before seeing the vet? Key information to help the vet assess quickly

Note when symptoms started, how often they occur and what makes them worse

List all current medications, supplements and feeding habits

Bring videos of your pet walking and in daily activities (front and side views)

Bring any previous X-rays or related diagnostic reports if available

Record recent weight and toileting patterns for comparison

Call ahead to book an appointment at an orthopaedic clinic with X-ray capability

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.

Related Symptoms (You May Also Be Looking For)

Crepitus

Joint crackling

Decreased Range Of Motion

Limited movement

Lameness

Limping