Signs of Bad Hips on a Dog

Hip dysplasia is an inherited bone disorder where the hips do not fit properly together. A normal hip joint has the ball head of the femur (leg bone) fitting snugly in the socket of the pelvis (hip bone). With hip dysplasia, the ball of the femur is often flattened or misshapen, not allowing for a tight connection. This loose connection leads to bone spurs, arthritis and general pain.


Hip dysplasia is more common in large-breed dogs (such as Labrador retrievers, German shepherds and golden retrievers) and giant-breed dogs, such as Great Danes. It is common in purebreds but can be seen in mixed-breed dogs as well. Although no cure has been found, hip dysplasia can be managed.


If your dog exhibits signs of hip dysplasia, take him to a vet to be checked and treated.

  1. Loose Gait

    • Dogs with hip dysplasia seem to have a "loosey-goosey" gait or a waddle in the hind end when they are walking.

    Pain After Exercise

    • Even puppies as young as five months of age can demonstrate pain after playing hard. They will be stiff in their hindquarters and might limp.

    Difficulty Rising

    • Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia will often get up more slowly--especially in the cold or after laying on hard floors.

    Bunny Hopping

    • This is the gait that some dogs use to reduce their pain. "Bunny-hopping" occurs when the dog moves both back legs together, resulting in a hopping movement.

    Reluctance to Jump, Climb Stairs or Run

    • Dogs with hip dysplasia don't want to move as much as healthy-hipped dogs. If your dog is reluctant to jump, climb stairs or run, he may have hip dysplasia.

    Short-legged Gait

    • As the disease progresses, the regular extension of the rear legs becomes increasingly painful. To compensate, dogs will take short, jerky strides.
      While dysplasia cannot be cured, it can be managed. Pain medication may help your dog regain a normal range of motion.