Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is an abnormal development and growth of the hip joint. Both hips are usually affected, but only one side may show symptoms. The onset of clinical signs may not occur on both sides at the same time. Hip dysplasia is manifested by varying degrees of laxity of the muscles and ligaments around the hip joint with instability and malformation of the joint components.
Arthritis is the long term consequence of undetected or untreated hip dysplasia.
Hip dysplasia occurs primarily in dogs that have a mature body weight of over 30 pounds. However, toy breeds and even cats have been reported to have the problem. Hip dysplasia is a genetic problem. We recommend orthopedic screening examinations at six months of age in medium, large, and giant breed dogs. The clinical signs of hip dysplasia, lameness and pain, can be evident as early as four to six months of age.