Hip dysplasia is one of the most common inherited orthopaedic conditions affecting dogs in the UK. The hip joint — a ball-and-socket joint — develops abnormally, leading to instability, pain, and eventually severe arthritis. While it is genetic in origin, environmental factors including weight, growth rate, and exercise regime significantly influence how the condition progresses. Early detection, proper management, and — when necessary — surgery can give affected dogs excellent quality of life.
Breeds Most Commonly Affected
Any dog can develop hip dysplasia, but it is far more common in medium-to-large breeds:
- Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Rottweiler
- French Bulldog, Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland
- Some smaller breeds: Pugs, English Bulldogs
Signs & Symptoms
- Stiffness after rest, difficulty getting up
- Reluctance to exercise, play, or jump
- “Bunny hopping” gait (both back legs moving together when running)
- Limping or lameness in hind legs
- Poor muscle development in hindquarters
- Pain when hind legs are extended
- Symptoms can appear from 6 months old in severe cases
BVA/KC Hip Scoring Scheme
The British Veterinary Association and Kennel Club operate the UK hip scoring programme:
- Dogs must be 12 months or older and microchipped
- X-rays taken under sedation/anaesthesia, submitted to BVA for assessment
- Each hip scored 0–53 across 9 features. Total score: 0–106 (lower = better)
- Breeding dogs should ideally score below the breed’s median score
- Cost: approximately £290 (excluding anaesthesia)
- Always ask breeders for hip scores of both parents before buying a puppy
Treatment Options
Conservative (Non-Surgical) Management
Often the first approach for mild-to-moderate cases:
- Weight control: The single most impactful intervention. Every excess kilogram increases joint stress
- Controlled exercise: Short, regular walks on flat surfaces. Avoid ball-chasing, jumping, and stair-climbing
- Anti-inflammatory medication: NSAIDs prescribed by your vet for pain and swelling
- Hydrotherapy: Builds muscle without joint impact — highly recommended
- Joint supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin — supportive, not curative
Surgical Options
| Procedure | Best For | UK Cost |
|---|---|---|
| THR (Total Hip Replacement) | Severe dysplasia, adults | £5,000–£9,900 per hip |
| FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) | Salvage procedure, any age | £700–£4,000 |
| DPO/TPO (Pelvic Osteotomy) | Young dogs (under 10 months) | £5,800–£6,500 |
| JPS (Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis) | Puppies under 5 months | ~£1,320 |
FAQs
Will pet insurance cover hip dysplasia treatment?
Most lifetime pet insurance policies cover hip dysplasia as it is classified as an illness, not a pre-existing condition (provided it develops after the policy starts). However, THR surgery can exceed £10,000 for both hips — some policies have annual vet fee limits of £4,000–£8,000 which may not cover the full cost. Check your policy’s per-condition and per-year limits carefully. If you have a breed prone to hip dysplasia, opt for a policy with the highest vet fee limit you can afford.
Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Jenkins, MRCVS
Dr. Jenkins is a fully practicing veterinary surgeon in the UK with over 15 years of clinical experience in small animal medicine and canine behaviour. She reviews and verifies our health content to ensure medical accuracy.
