The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint.  In a normally developed hip joint the ball on the top of the femur (thigh bone) fits very snuggly and smoothly in the socket of the hip bone.We may find two different problems in the dog with hip dysplasia.  One, the ball does not sit deep and snug in the socket and two, the ball and/or the socket are not smooth and normally shaped. 

So why does this lead to arthritis?  Hip dysplasia brings on a vicious cycle.Inflammation results from the cartilage rubbing together between the abnormally shaped bones.  Inflammation further degrades the cartilage.Cartilage regrowth can be slow, possibly too slow to manage the rate of loss of cartilage.  The losses outweigh the gains.   The more damaged the joint becomes the less able it is to protect itself so even more damage occurs.

There are two possibilities as to how your dog developed hip dysplasia.  It is  a genetic condition,  meaning a dog may be born with the problem.  There is also evidence that environmental conditions can play a role.  Injury or overexertion at a young age, while the joints are still developing.You should not make your four month old lab puppy your daily jogging partner.That repetitive force on a sensitive, developing joint is damaging.

Many of the symptoms of hip dysplasia indicate a reluctance to use the joint.  Your dog may stand up slowly or with difficulty, may be reluctant to jump up on things or go up stairs and may even bunnyhop with his back legs when running.  Over time the muscles in the hip and thigh area may atrophy or shrink causing the bones to appear to be sticking out.

Hip dysplasia has no cure.  The condition is controlled with weight control, proper exercise and arthritis medicine for dogs.  Medication can come in the form of nutritional supplements such as glucosamine for dogs or anti-inflammatory drugs obtained from your veterinarian.  In severe cases hip replacement surgery may be considered.

If you think your dog may have a problem speak with your veterinarian about taking x-rays so you can diagnose the problem and start treatment right away.  With the proper management it is possible to slow down the arthritis and control the pain.  Also keep in mind that arthritis has other causes.  You may notice symptoms of arthritis in your dog but it does not necessarily mean that it was caused by hip dysplasia.Old age and injuries also play a part in the development of arthritis.  In any event, your arthritic dog may benefit greatly from supplementation to support the joints.