That bunny hop isn't cute — it might be hip dysplasia
You might notice it first on the stairs. Your dog hesitates, shifts their weight, or takes them one at a time instead of bounding up like they used to. Or maybe they've started running with both back legs moving together - a distinctive bunny-hopping gait that looks odd but doesn't seem to bother them.
Don't dismiss it. According to Texas A&M's Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, dogs with hip dysplasia commonly show hind limb lameness, pain, and muscle wasting, and owners frequently report a bunny-hopping gait, reluctance to rise or jump, and decreased activity compared to other dogs their age. Many dysplastic dogs show these signs as early as 6–12 months of age, though some don't display symptoms until much later.
Hip dysplasia is the most common inherited musculoskeletal disorder in dogs. It's not a death sentence, most dogs with hip dysplasia live full, active lives with the right management. But catching it early makes a significant difference in long-term outcomes.
What actually happens in a dysplastic hip
In a healthy hip, the ball at the top of the thigh bone (femoral head) fits snugly into the socket of the pelvis (acetabulum). The joint moves smoothly, cushioned by cartilage and stabilised by strong ligaments.
In a dog with hip dysplasia, the ball and socket don't develop at the same rate during growth. The fit is loose. Instead of gliding, the joint grinds. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, this laxity leads to abnormal wear on the cartilage, chronic inflammation, and eventually osteoarthritis, a progressive, irreversible degeneration of the joint.
The key word is developmental. Hip dysplasia isn't something that happens overnight from an injury. It develops during your dog's growth phase, typically in the first 12–18 months, and then worsens gradually over time as the cartilage deteriorates and arthritis sets in.
Which breeds are most at risk?
Hip dysplasia can occur in any breed, but it's overwhelmingly more common in large and giant breeds. According to PetMD, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers are the most commonly affected, but any large or giant breed dog is at higher-than-average risk.
High-risk breeds include: German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Rottweiler, Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, English Bulldog, Mastiff, Old English Sheepdog, American Staffordshire Terrier
Moderate-risk breeds: Boxer, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Chow Chow, Samoyed, Siberian Husky, Springer Spaniel
Lower risk but not immune: Small breeds can develop hip dysplasia too, Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Bulldogs are more susceptible than most small breeds due to their body structure.
If you have a large or giant breed dog, the American Kennel Club recommends talking to your vet about screening for hip dysplasia, even if your dog isn't showing symptoms. Early detection can significantly reduce or even prevent the long-term arthritis that hip dysplasia causes.
The early signs most owners miss
Hip dysplasia often develops gradually, which means the early signs are easy to dismiss as normal ageing or tiredness. Here's what to watch for:
In puppies and young dogs (6–18 months): Reluctance to run, jump, or play as vigorously as other puppies. A wobbling or swaying gait in the hindquarters. Bunny-hopping when running, both back legs moving together instead of alternating. Difficulty getting up after lying down. Decreased interest in physical activity that was previously normal.
In adult and older dogs: Stiffness after rest, especially first thing in the morning or after a nap. Difficulty climbing stairs, jumping into the car, or getting on furniture. A narrow stance in the back legs. Audible clicking or grinding sounds from the hip area during movement. Loss of muscle mass in the thighs, the back legs look thinner than the front. Shifting weight forward onto the front legs to reduce pressure on the hips. Reluctance to be touched around the hip area.
As the Merck Veterinary Manual notes, clinical signs don't always match what X-rays show, some dogs with significant joint changes show minimal lameness, while others with relatively mild dysplasia are clearly in pain. Dogs are stoic animals. The absence of obvious limping doesn't mean the absence of discomfort.
What causes it — and what makes it worse
Genetics is the primary driver. If a puppy's parents have hip dysplasia, the puppy's chances of developing it more than double. This is why responsible breeders screen their breeding dogs through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the PennHIP programme and only breed dogs with certified good or excellent hip scores.
But genetics alone doesn't determine severity. Several environmental factors influence how the condition develops:
Rapid growth and overfeeding during puppyhood Large breed puppies that grow too fast — often from high-calorie puppy foods or overfeeding, put excessive stress on developing joints before the bones and cartilage have fully formed. This is why many veterinarians recommend large-breed-specific puppy food with controlled calcium and calorie levels.
Excessive exercise during growth Hard running, jumping, and high-impact play on developing joints can accelerate dysplasia in predisposed puppies. This doesn't mean puppies shouldn't play, it means structured, repetitive high-impact exercise (long runs on pavement, jumping for frisbees, forced jogging alongside a bike) should be avoided until the growth plates close, typically around 12–18 months for large breeds.
Excess weight at any age Extra weight puts direct mechanical stress on already-compromised hip joints. A landmark study following 48 Labrador Retrievers found that dogs fed a 25% calorie-restricted diet developed hip dysplasia significantly later and with less severity than dogs fed freely. Weight management isn't just a recommendation, it's the single most impactful non-surgical intervention.
Inadequate nutrition A diet lacking in omega-3 fatty acids, quality protein, and joint-supporting nutrients allows inflammation to go unchecked and cartilage to deteriorate faster. Nutrition won't reverse structural damage, but it can significantly influence the rate of progression.
How hip dysplasia is diagnosed
If you suspect hip dysplasia, your vet will start with a physical examination, manipulating your dog's hind legs to check for looseness (laxity), pain response, grinding (crepitus), and reduced range of motion. They may also check for the Ortolani sign, an audible clunk when manipulating a dysplastic hip.
The definitive diagnosis comes from X-rays taken under sedation. According to the AKC, radiographic imaging reveals the degree and severity of the dysplasia and helps determine the best course of treatment. X-rays can also show whether osteoarthritis has already developed in the joint.
For puppies in at-risk breeds, screening X-rays can be taken as early as 16 weeks. The PennHIP method and OFA grading system are the two most widely used evaluation programmes. Early screening, even in dogs without symptoms, is recommended for any large breed, especially if they'll be used for athletic activities, working roles, or breeding.
Treatment: what actually works
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, most dogs with hip dysplasia don't need surgery. The condition can often be managed effectively through a combination of medical and lifestyle interventions.
Weight management — the foundation of everything This is the single most important thing you can control. Every extra kilogram of body weight puts additional stress on joints that are already compromised. Keeping your dog at a lean body condition score reduces pain, slows cartilage degeneration, and improves mobility. If your dog is overweight, work with your vet to create a controlled weight loss plan, even a 5–10% reduction in body weight can produce noticeable improvement in mobility and comfort.
Low-impact exercise — use it or lose it Rest seems logical, but restricting all movement actually makes things worse. Muscles around the hip joint provide crucial support and stability, and they atrophy quickly without use. The goal is consistent, low-impact exercise that builds muscle without stressing the joint.
Dr. Jo Myers, a veterinarian on the Vetster platform, recommends two 20-minute walks per day on easy terrain, letting your dog set the pace. Swimming is considered the ideal exercise for dogs with hip dysplasia because buoyancy eliminates joint impact while building muscle strength. Avoid running, jumping, stairs, and any exercise on hard surfaces.
Joint supplements — supporting cartilage from the inside Dr. Joseph Wakshlag, professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, offers an honest assessment of the evidence: few supplements other than fish oil have been definitively proven to slow joint degeneration, but glucosamine and chondroitin may help slow progression. Cornell currently recommends fish oil and glucosamine-chondroitin as a baseline supplementation strategy for dogs with joint issues.
A clinical trial published in veterinary research found that dogs treated with glucosamine-chondroitin showed statistically significant improvements in pain scores, severity, and weight-bearing by day 70, though the onset was slower than prescription anti-inflammatories. This suggests supplements work best as part of a long-term daily routine rather than a quick fix.
The most effective supplementation approach combines omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA from fish oil) for their anti-inflammatory effect with glucosamine-chondroitin for cartilage support. These work through different mechanisms and complement each other.
Anti-inflammatory medication For dogs in significant pain, your vet may prescribe NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like carprofen or meloxicam. These are effective but come with potential side effects, particularly on the liver and kidneys with long-term use, so regular blood work monitoring is important. Supplements can help reduce reliance on medication over time.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation Veterinary physiotherapy, including hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill or swimming), massage, range-of-motion exercises, and laser therapy, can significantly improve mobility and reduce pain. These therapies are becoming more widely available as canine rehabilitation grows as a speciality.
Surgery — when conservative management isn't enough Surgical options exist for dogs who don't respond to conservative treatment:
Total Hip Replacement (THR) is the gold standard - the damaged joint is replaced with a prosthetic, restoring full function. Cost is typically $5,000–$8,000 per hip.
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) removes the femoral head entirely, allowing the body to form a fibrous "false joint." It's less expensive than THR and works well for smaller dogs.
Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO) can be performed on young dogs (under 10 months) before arthritis develops, to improve joint stability.
Most dogs do well with conservative management alone. Surgery is reserved for severe cases or dogs that don't respond to non-surgical treatment.
Living with a dog with hip dysplasia
A diagnosis of hip dysplasia doesn't mean your dog can't live a happy, active life. Most dogs with this condition do very well with consistent daily management. Here are practical adjustments that make a real difference:
At home: Use non-slip rugs or mats on hard floors, dysplastic dogs struggle on slippery surfaces. Provide a firm orthopaedic bed that supports the joints rather than a flat cushion. Use ramps instead of stairs where possible, especially for getting in and out of the car.
Exercise: Keep it consistent and low-impact. Daily walks on soft surfaces (grass, dirt paths) and swimming when available. Avoid weekend-warrior patterns, alternating between no exercise and intense activity is worse than steady, moderate daily movement.
Temperature: Cold weather worsens joint stiffness. Keep your dog warm, especially overnight. A heated bed or warm water bottle can help during winter months.
Monitoring: Watch for changes in gait, willingness to exercise, and muscle mass in the hind legs. Gradual changes are easy to miss when you see your dog every day. Taking a short video of your dog walking every month gives you a visual record to compare over time.
A daily management routine that works
Every day: Add a joint supplement (glucosamine-chondroitin) and an omega-3 supplement (fish oil) to your dog's food. These work through different pathways - glucosamine supports cartilage structure while omega-3s reduce inflammation. Together, they provide comprehensive daily joint support.
Every day: One or two low-impact walks on soft terrain, letting your dog set the pace. 15–30 minutes per walk is a good starting point. Adjust based on how your dog responds.
Ongoing: Keep your dog at a lean body weight. This is non-negotiable, it's the single most impactful thing you can do.
Regularly: Monitor body condition score, watch for changes in mobility, and maintain regular vet check-ups with X-rays as recommended to track progression.
FAQ SECTION
What are the first signs of hip dysplasia in dogs? The earliest signs are often subtle, a slight bunny-hopping gait when running, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, stiffness after rest, and decreased activity compared to other dogs their age. In puppies, these signs can appear as early as 6 months. Many owners initially dismiss them as the dog being tired or lazy. If your large-breed dog shows any of these signs, ask your vet about screening X-rays.
Can hip dysplasia be cured without surgery? Hip dysplasia can't be cured, the structural abnormality in the joint is permanent. But it can be managed very effectively without surgery in most cases. Weight management, low-impact exercise, joint supplements (glucosamine-chondroitin and omega-3 fish oil), and anti-inflammatory medication when needed can keep most dogs comfortable and mobile for years. Surgery is reserved for severe cases that don't respond to conservative management.
What breeds are most prone to hip dysplasia? German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are among the most commonly affected. However, any large or giant breed is at higher risk, and even some smaller breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs can develop it. If you have an at-risk breed, screening X-rays are recommended even without symptoms.
How much does hip dysplasia surgery cost? Total Hip Replacement (THR), the gold standard procedure, typically costs $5,000–$8,000 per hip. Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) is less expensive. Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO) for young dogs varies by surgeon and location. These costs include the surgery, anaesthesia, hospitalisation, and initial follow-up. Most dogs do well with conservative management and never require surgery.
Is swimming good for dogs with hip dysplasia? Yes. Swimming is widely considered the best exercise for dogs with hip dysplasia. The buoyancy of water eliminates impact on the joints while allowing the dog to build and maintain muscle mass around the hips. Hydrotherapy (supervised swimming or underwater treadmill) at a veterinary rehabilitation facility provides the most controlled environment, but supervised recreational swimming is beneficial too.
Should I still walk my dog if they have hip dysplasia? Yes. Restricting all exercise leads to muscle atrophy, weight gain, and increased joint stiffness, which accelerates the condition. Low-impact daily walks on soft surfaces are essential. Start with 15–20 minutes and let your dog set the pace. Avoid hard surfaces, running, jumping, and stairs. Consistent daily movement is better than occasional long walks.
Do joint supplements actually help dogs with hip dysplasia? According to Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, fish oil has the strongest evidence for slowing joint degeneration, and glucosamine-chondroitin may help slow progression. A clinical trial showed dogs on glucosamine-chondroitin had significant improvements in pain and weight-bearing by day 70. Supplements work best as a long-term daily routine alongside weight management and exercise. not as a standalone treatment.
The Bottom Line: Hip dysplasia sounds frightening, but most dogs with this condition live full, active lives with the right support. The key is catching it early and managing it consistently. Weight management is the single most impactful thing you can do — every extra kilogram adds stress to joints that are already working harder than they should. Combined with daily low-impact exercise, joint supplementation, and regular vet monitoring, most dogs with hip dysplasia never need surgery. A daily glucosamine-chondroitin supplement supports cartilage structure, while omega-3 fish oil reduces the inflammation that drives joint deterioration. They work through different mechanisms — together, they provide comprehensive daily joint support that helps keep your dog moving comfortably for years.
Start today. The earlier you begin, the more you can slow the progression. Try it risk-free for 60 days →
Always consult your veterinarian before adding any new supplement to your dog's diet, particularly if your dog has an existing health condition.
About the Author
Gavin Coutts — Founder & CEO, NuLife Natural Pet Health
Gavin Coutts founded NuLife Natural Pet Health in 2015 with a simple belief: that pets deserve access to clean, natural supplements that actually work. Over the past 10 years, NuLife has grown into one of the most trusted names in natural pet health, with products used by over 100,000 pets and their owners across the US. Every NuLife supplement is developed through careful research into safe, natural ingredients, chosen for proven efficacy, purity and long-term animal wellbeing.