Hip dysplasia is a heritable condition causing chronic pain in large and giant breed dogs. Breeding health schemes have demonstrated significant progress in reducing prevalence.
Hip dysplasia causes progressive osteoarthritis causing chronic pain and reduced mobility. Affected dogs experience significant welfare compromise throughout their lives. Breeding health schemes that select for lower hip scores have demonstrably reduced prevalence in participating breeds. Wider adoption and enforcement of health testing in breed registrations would accelerate progress.