Austin Animal Clinic

Canine Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary disease or condition that has the potential to cause crippling lameness and painful arthritis in the hip joints of a variety of dogs. It is a combination of genetic and environmental conditions that is common in larger dog breeds.

In dogs that are affected by hip dysplasia, there are generally two things that are abnormal in their hip sockets. One, the caput, the almost spherical end of the femur/thigh bone, is not held in place deeply or tightly by the acetabulum, the concave socket located in the pelvis that is designed to hold the caput. The combination results in a loose or partial fit of the hip socket which allows the bone to move around more than it is supposed to.

The second condition relates to the formation of the caput and or acetabulum. In dogs with hip dysplasia, the caput and or acetabulum are misshapen. This causes abnormal wear and tear or friction within the hip as it moves.

When a dog has hip dysplasia, degradation of the joint is common. In addition, the joint may not be able to support the dog’s body as it was intended. The condition results in an inflamed joint and a cycle of cartilage damage, inflammation, and pain. The process is self-sustaining. The more the joint becomes damaged, the less able it is to resist future damage.

In some cases, osteoarthritis develops. This can be seen on x-rays in the form of small outcrops of bone on the end of the caput. These outcrops further damage the joint.

Hip dysplasia is most common in German Shepherds, Labs, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Mastiffs. It is also seen in smaller breeds like Spaniels. In addition, hip dysplasia can affect cats.

For more information on hip dysplasia and treating the condition, contact your Austin veterinarian.