Hip dysplasia is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, causing chronic pain and mobility loss. Effective management combines medical, surgical, and lifestyle interventions.
Dogs with hip dysplasia experience chronic pain that affects every aspect of daily life including movement, rest, and play. The insidious nature of the condition means many dogs mask pain until it becomes severe. Regular pain assessment using validated tools helps owners and vets track changes. Multimodal pain management combining NSAIDs, joint supplements, physiotherapy, and hydrotherapy offers the best welfare outcomes. Dogs should maintain a lean body condition as excess weight dramatically worsens joint stress.