There are lots of things to consider when you begin looking for a dog to welcome into your family and home.

Knowing what breed is suitable depending on your lifestyle is just one of the important factors to research.

Whether you have always dreamed of owning a Cockapoo or you want to rescue a Labrador, sometimes specific breeds are prone to health issues.

Hip dysplasia is one condition that can affect some of our four-legged friends more than others.

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To combat the problem, The Hip Dysplasia Scheme was established by BVA and the Kennel Club in 1965 to “reduce the incidence and severity of the condition,” reports the British Veterinary Association (BVA).

The vet website adds: “The scheme uses X-rays to screen for signs of abnormalities (irregular or poorly shaped hip joints) caused by hip dysplasia.

“X-rays are reviewed and scored by BVA-appointed expert veterinary surgeons.”

What is hip dysplasia in dogs?

The BVA explains: “Hip dysplasia is a common inherited orthopaedic problem where abnormalities occur in the hip joints.

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“These abnormalities include changes to the shape of the hip, ball and socket and the development of osteoarthritis (a common form of arthritis).”

Some visible signs of hip dysplasia in dogs can differ between breeds and individual canines, they include:

  • Being unable to walk correctly
  • Stiffness after rest
  • A reluctance to exercise
  • Groaning while resting or getting up
  • Difficulty in using the stairs

Most common dog breeds with hip dysplasia

According to the BVA, some of the most common dog breeds at risk of hip dysplasia are:

  • Border Collie
  • Bernese Mountain Dog
  • German Shepherd
  • German Shorthaired Pointer
  • Golden Retriever
  • Goldendoodle
  • Hungarian Vizsla
  • Labrador Retriever
  • Labradoodle
  • Newfoundland
  • Rottweiler

To see the full list, you can visit the Kennel Club's Breeds A to Z page.

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How to treat hip dysplasia in dogs including at home

The BVA advises: “It is possible to ease some of the signs of pain and limitation of movement caused by hip dysplasia.

“There are a variety of medications and surgical procedures that can be considered. Applied heat, massage, good bedding, exercise and weight management as well as nutrition and physiotherapy also play a part in caring for a dog affected by hip dysplasia.”

If you have any concerns about your dog's health including hip dysplasia, always consult a vet.