Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
In-home rehabilitation to reduce pain, improve joint function, and support long-term mobility in dogs with hip dysplasia
Understanding Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
Hip dysplasia in dogs is a common orthopaedic condition caused by abnormal development of the hip joint, where the femoral head doesn’t fit securely into the socket (acetabulum). This instability leads to joint laxity, abnormal wear, pain, and the eventual development of osteoarthritis. It can affect dogs of all ages but is especially prevalent in large and giant breeds, such as German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers.
While genetics play a significant role, factors like rapid growth, excessive weight, and inappropriate exercise during puppyhood may contribute to the progression of hip dysplasia. Clinical signs range from subtle changes in gait, posture, or willingness to sit squarely to more severe signs such as stiffness, limping, and reluctance to exercise.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Early therapeutic intervention is critical in managing hip dysplasia in dogs, particularly before secondary complications such as muscle atrophy, compensatory movement patterns, and chronic pain become established. Hip dysplasia is a progressive, biomechanical condition that leads to joint laxity, abnormal loading, synovial inflammation, and the development of osteoarthritis. Without intervention, these changes can cause significant impairment in mobility, joint integrity, and overall quality of life.
Implementing rehabilitation early in the course of disease allows us to support joint function through structured strength-building, neuromuscular re-education, and targeted proprioceptive exercises. These therapies improve dynamic stability of the hip, reduce abnormal mechanical stress, and promote more balanced, efficient movement patterns. Manual therapy and photobiomodulation (PBMT) are used to manage pain, improve soft tissue quality, and reduce periarticular stiffness.
Rehabilitation also plays a key role in preserving whole-body function. As dogs with hip dysplasia often develop compensatory loading through the forelimbs or spine, early treatment helps prevent long-term strain and secondary dysfunction. By identifying subtle deficits early and addressing them proactively, we can improve clinical outcomes and support a more active, comfortable life for dogs at any age or stage of diagnosis.
Rehabilitation for Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
.At Paws4Paws, we provide personalised, in-home rehabilitation programs for dogs with hip dysplasia. Each plan is informed by a comprehensive functional assessment and adapted to your dog’s individual presentation—including joint integrity, postural adaptations, pain behaviour, and strength deficits. Our goal is to restore efficient biomechanics, improve comfort, and maintain long-term musculoskeletal health through targeted, progressive care.
Our treatments may include:
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Manual therapy to enhance joint range of motion, relieve soft tissue restriction, and address asymmetrical loading
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Therapeutic exercise to activate and strengthen hip stabilisers, improve neuromuscular engagement, and support dynamic limb control
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Laser therapy (PBMT) to reduce periarticular inflammation, support tissue healing, and assist with localised pain modulation
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Proprioceptive and postural training to refine coordination, promote symmetrical movement, and reinforce safe functional patterns
- Home exercise program to extend therapeutic benefits between sessions through guided, condition-specific exercises to build strength and proprioception
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Owner education to optimise home routines, minimise joint strain during daily activity, and support long-term condition management
This multimodal approach provides a structured framework for improving hip joint function, minimising pain, and promoting long-term musculoskeletal health in dogs with hip dysplasia.