Hip dysplasia causes chronic joint pain in dogs and is largely preventable through responsible breeding. Screening programs and breeding selection are essential welfare tools.
Hip dysplasia is one of the most significant preventable causes of chronic pain in companion dogs. Irresponsible breeding without screening perpetuates avoidable suffering across generations. Selecting breeding stock with screened hip scores, avoiding high-risk breed pairings, and managing puppy growth and exercise reduces but does not eliminate risk. Treatment of affected dogs requires long-term pain management and potentially surgery.