Until genetic markers are found, and testing for those markers becomes standard, there is very little that gives a breeder the ability to control or eliminate genetic defects. For hip dysplasia, however, there now exists a tool that has been proven effective at greatly reducing the incidence of bad hips.
Surgery can help to correct the problem, but can be expensive and stressful for dog and family.
The tighter the joint, the less likely DJD will occur. Originally, the only means at the breeder's disposal was to look at the dog's movement in order to judge whether the hips seemed sound. Next came the x-ray and later the OFA registry. Positioning of the hips is critical for an accurate reading, and a great deal of variation is possible. Readings done at an early age have little or no correlation to readings done at later ages.