Hip Dysplasia Screening for Puppies

By Kay Hisano | Dated June 1, 2023

Hip dysplasia is a common condition of large breed dogs, where the ball of the femur does not sit well in the socket of the pelvis, causing instability of the joint and onset of arthritis. Hip dysplasia arises during a puppies their growth phase, however, we often do not notice any signs of discomfort until they are older. This is because although the main problem occurs while they are still young, they do not develop arthritis until later in life, which is the source of discomfort. This is why early diagnosis of hip dysplasia is vital.

We recommend early screening for hip dysplasia in predisposed puppies. If you notice any signs of lameness or discomfort in your puppy, or even want to just completely rule out hip dysplasia feel free to have a chat with our veterinarian during their puppy vaccinations. If we are able to detect signs of hip dysplasia early on, we are able to perform a surgical procedure called a Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS). This surgery involves prematurely sealing the pubic symphysis, a growth plate in the pelvis, allowing for the rotation of the pelvic sockets into an improved alignment. We can often desex them at the same time as this procedure.

What does a hip dysplasia screening consist of?
A hip dysplasia screening consists of a consultation and physical examination, followed by sedation and radiographs of the hips using the PennHIP distraction index method. The distraction index is reported as a numerical value ranging from 0 to 1, with higher values indicating greater joint laxity.

Even if you have missed the narrow margin for a JPS surgery there are many other alternatives to manage hip dysplasia. Other surgeries include, triple pelvic osteotomy, total hip replacement and a femoral head and neck ostectomy. If surgery is not an option, the alternative is long-term medical management with anti-inflammatories and pain relief. With a consultation, your veterinarian will advise what is best suited to the individual as multiple factors will play into this.

Meet sweet sweet Remi! He is a 16-week-old Chow Chow that came into GVH for his early hip dysplasia screening. Radiographs where taken and he was diagnosed with hip dysplasia. Remi had his JPS surgery soon after the diagnosis was made and the success of this surgery will be assessed when he is castrated in a few months time.