How to Tell If a Dog's Hip Is Dislocated

Hip dislocation, a fairly common injury in dogs, often results from trauma such as being hit by a car. Radiographs, sometimes referred to as x-rays, are needed to confirm that a dog's hip is dislocated, but there are outward signs that indicate likely hip dislocation. When the hip is dislocated, the top of the femur, the long leg bone that joins the hip joint, may be positioned above and in front of the joint, or craniodorsal. Less commonly, the femur is below and behind the joint, or caudoventral. Treatment must be done with the dog heavily sedated or anesthetized, and should be done by a veterinarian. The hip can usually be manually returned to its normal configuration and a short-term bandage applied by a veterinarian; however, recurring dislocation sometimes occurs. Surgery is needed in some cases.

Things You'll Need

  • Collar and leash
  • Muzzle
  • Comfortable surface
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Instructions

    • 1

      Restrain the dog with a leash and collar, plus a muzzle secured over the dog's mouth to protect the dog and handlers.

    • 2

      Observe the rear leg posture with the dog in standing position and walking. A dog with a dislocated hip usually won't place weight on one of the rear legs when standing or walking.

    • 3

      Observe the position of the rear leg that isn't bearing weight. If the leg is held inward, toward an imaginary center line of the body from nose to tail, and the knee is rotated outward, then a craniodorsal dislocation is possible. If the leg is held outward away from the imaginary center line and the knee is rotated inward, then a caudoventral dislocation is possible.

    • 4

      Compare the shape of the non-weight-bearing hip with the shape of hip on the weight-bearing side. In cases of dislocation, the hips will usually be asymmetrical. With the dog lying on its side with the normal leg downward, a leg with craniodorsal dislocation may be shorter than the normal leg.

    • 5

      Move the leg slightly back and forth and feel at the hip for crepitus, a crunching or popping feeling, and any sign of pain or resistance to movement. A dog that isn't bearing weight on one rear leg and is holding the leg in an abnormal position, with crepitus and asymmetry of the hip joint and back legs, may have hip dislocation and needs immediate veterinary attention for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.