Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, particularly large and giant breeds. Early screening, weight management and multimodal treatment significantly improve welfare.
Hip dysplasia welfare management requires long-term commitment across the dog's life. Early diagnosis through screening allows proactive management before pain becomes severe; breeding dogs with scored hips reduces the genetic burden in susceptible breeds. Dogs with unmanaged CHD experience chronic progressive pain that reduces exercise tolerance, disrupts sleep and causes the behavioural changes of chronic pain (reduced socialisation, increased irritability, activity avoidance). Multimodal management - weight control, physiotherapy, appropriate exercise, pain medication and when indicated surgery - can maintain excellent quality of life for many affected dogs.