Definition

• Hip dysplasia occurs because of unhealthy joint structure in the connection between the rear legs and the hips. The supportive tissues around the joint become lax, causing the femoral head (tip of the leg bone) to lose connection with the pelvic bone. Most puppies have normal hip joints, but develop dysplasia over time. Dysplasia sometimes affects one leg, and sometimes affects both rear legs.
  
  

Dogs Affected

• Hip dysplasia can affect any dog, but is most common among large breeds such as Great Danes, German shepherds and St. Bernards. The condition can develop in mixed breeds, but occurs more commonly in purebred dogs.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms do not usually appear until the later years of a dog's life, but even young dogs may begin displaying the symptoms of hip dysplasia. Dogs with the condition will often be hesitant to extend their rear legs, and may walk with an unusual stride because of the pain and discomfort they feel. If these dogs are not treated, they may eventually lose their ability to walk.
  
  

Risk Factors

• A major risk factor for the development of hip dysplasia is genetics. Dogs whose parents have hip dysplasia are more likely to develop the condition themselves. Another major risk factor is nutrition. Dogs that eat too much often become obese, and this extra weight can put extra stress on the hip joints. Researchers say that selective breeding (not breeding dogs with dysplasia together) can help reduce the incidence of hip dysplasia.
  
  

Treatment

• There are surgical options for the treatment of the condition, depending on the affected dog. These range from procedures to realign the joints to complete hip replacement. All of these are major surgeries, and are generally expensive.
  
  Medical treatments also exist. One category of medical treatment is supportive. Weight management is key for obese dogs, so special weight-management food may help. Some dogs also benefit from physical therapy and proper daily exercise. Oral as well as injectable anti-inflammatory supplements and drugs can also be beneficial.