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Watching your dog struggle to stand up, avoid stairs, or limp after a walk can be heartbreaking, especially when you don’t know the cause. Hip dysplasia is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, and it often begins developing during puppyhood long before symptoms become obvious. Screening for this condition early gives you the best chance of managing it effectively and keeping your dog comfortable for years to come.
At Venetian Pet Hospital, we provide hip dysplasia screening and management for dogs of all breeds and sizes throughout Stockton. Our team uses diagnostic imaging and thorough orthopedic evaluation to assess your dog’s hip health and create a care plan tailored to their specific needs.
Our dedicated team is here to provide urgent, high-quality care for your pets—because they’re family and deserve immediate attention when it matters most!
Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition in which the ball and socket joint of the hip doesn’t form properly. Instead of fitting snugly together, the femoral head and the acetabulum grow at uneven rates, resulting in a loose, unstable joint. Over time, this instability causes abnormal wear on the cartilage and bone, leading to chronic inflammation, pain, and arthritis.
According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, hip dysplasia is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. While genetics play the primary role in determining whether a dog is predisposed to the condition, factors like rapid growth, excess weight, improper nutrition during development, and high-impact exercise on immature joints can accelerate its progression. Large and giant breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Great Danes are among the most commonly affected, though hip dysplasia can occur in dogs of any size.
Symptoms can appear as early as a few months of age in severe cases, though many dogs don’t show obvious signs until they’re adults. Watch for difficulty rising from a lying or sitting position, reluctance to climb stairs or jump, a bunny-hopping gait when running, decreased activity or playfulness, stiffness after rest or exercise, loss of muscle mass in the hind legs, and audible clicking or popping from the hip area. Some dogs compensate for hip pain by shifting their weight forward, which can make the condition harder to spot without a professional evaluation.
Our screening process begins with a thorough orthopedic examination. We assess your dog’s gait, range of motion, and response to joint manipulation. Palpation of the hips helps us evaluate joint laxity and identify areas of discomfort.
We recommend screening for all large and giant breed dogs, dogs showing early signs of hind limb discomfort, and dogs being considered for breeding programs.
While hip dysplasia cannot be reversed, there are effective ways to slow its progression and keep your dog comfortable. Weight management is one of the most important factors, as excess weight puts additional strain on already compromised joints. We work with you on a nutritional plan that supports a lean body condition without sacrificing the nutrients your dog needs.
Physical therapy exercises, controlled low-impact activity, joint supplements, and anti-inflammatory medications all play a role in managing symptoms. For dogs with severe hip dysplasia that doesn’t respond adequately to conservative treatment, orthopedic surgery may be recommended. Dr. Sam Varon on our team has a particular interest in orthopedic procedures, including TPLOs and fracture repairs, and can help determine whether surgical intervention is the right choice for your dog.
Our veterinary team takes a proactive approach to orthopedic health because early detection leads to better outcomes. Whether you have a growing large-breed puppy, an active adult dog showing early stiffness, or a senior dog dealing with chronic joint pain, we have the tools and knowledge to help. Our family-owned practice treats every patient with warmth and individualized attention.
Don’t wait for hip pain to limit your dog’s quality of life. Contact Venetian Pet Hospital to schedule a hip dysplasia screening and give your dog the support they need to stay active and comfortable.
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