Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Hip Dysplasia Screening and Breeding

Hip dysplasia is one of the most common orthopaedic diseases in dogs and is largely inherited, making breeding selection crucial.

Key Facts

Hip dysplasia affects up to 50% of some larger breeds including German Shepherds
The BVA/KC hip scoring scheme grades hips from 0-106 total score
Only breeding from dogs with scores below breed median reduces disease incidence
Exercise and weight management can delay clinical signs but not cure dysplasia
Surgical interventions including TPO and total hip replacement are available

Welfare Considerations

Hip dysplasia causes chronic pain and reduced quality of life for affected dogs. Breeding selection using validated hip scoring schemes can substantially reduce disease prevalence over generations. Every generation of unselected breeding perpetuates suffering.

What You Can Do

Insist on BVA hip score certificates when buying puppies of at-risk breeds
Support breed clubs that mandate hip scoring before breeding registration
Advocate for regulatory requirements for health testing in licensed breeding establishments