Companion Dog Hip Dysplasia Prevention Advanced

Hip dysplasia prevention through genetics, nutrition, and exercise is more welfare-effective than treatment of established disease.

Key Facts

Hip dysplasia affects an estimated 10-20% of dogs in large and giant breeds
Heritability is high - breeding from health-tested parents with good hip scores reduces incidence substantially
Nutrition in puppyhood affects hip development - rapid growth is a risk factor in large breeds
Exercise on hard surfaces in puppyhood may increase risk - moderate exercise on soft ground is preferred
BVA/KC Hip Scheme grades hips in two and provides breed mean scores for comparison
Environmental factors interact with genetics - prevention requires both breeding selection and management

Welfare Considerations

Hip dysplasia prevention is far more welfare-effective than managing established disease. Breeding decisions based on hip score data reduce the probability of producing affected offspring. Management of puppy growth rate, diet, and exercise during the critical first year reduces environmental risk. Both approaches working together provide the best welfare outcome.

What You Can Do

Ask breeders for both parents' BVA hip scores before purchasing a large breed puppy
Feed large breed puppy food specifically formulated to prevent rapid growth
Provide appropriate puppy exercise on soft surfaces avoiding hard impact activities
Ask your vet about hip scoring your dog at 12+ months to contribute to breed health data
Support Kennel Club health programmes and breed club hip scoring initiatives