Hip dysplasia is one of the most common hereditary conditions affecting dogs, causing chronic joint pain and mobility impairment that significantly reduces quality of life in affected animals — yet breeding practices can substantially reduce its prevalence.
Hip dysplasia causes chronic pain from the puppy stage that progressively worsens into adulthood and old age. The condition begins with joint laxity causing abnormal movement, which gradually destroys joint cartilage and bone surfaces. Affected dogs experience pain when rising, climbing, or exercising — activities they would normally approach with enthusiasm. Pain assessment in dogs with hip dysplasia often reveals greater suffering than owners perceive, because dogs continue to move despite discomfort. The hereditary nature of hip dysplasia means that breeding decisions directly determine the future welfare of offspring. Breed clubs and kennel clubs that require health testing before breeding registration have made measurable progress reducing prevalence in participating populations.