Testing for Hip Dysplasia

dysplasia as owners of a dog breed potentially predisposed to this condition - the German Shepherd Dog.

The first sign of any potential hip problems in any dog may show up when the dog is as young as 1 to 3 years of age. As a dog ages and becomes more active abnormalities in movement also become more obvious. Veterinarian's can palpate a dog’s hips for signs of looseness and can also recommend a further evaluation test if needed.

Currently there are 2 basic tests used in evaluating any dog as potentially having, or not having, hip dysplasia - the OFA radiographic evaluation and the PennHIP method. Let's take a moment to learn more about each of these methods used for testing for hip dysplasia.

The OFA Radiographic Evaluation

This is a very well known alternative and has been available since the mid-1960s. Here's what happens using this procedure. A veterinarian will submit an X-ray of a dog's hip (placed in a specific position so the hip joint is easily viewed) to the OFA. Three OFA veterinary radiologists, randomly selected, will then examine the X-ray.

Each of the individual OFA radiologists on the panel will grade the dogs hip X-rays on a severity scale ranging from excellent all hte way down to severe. All dogs with hips that are within normal limits (such as excellent, good or fair) are given a number that will then become a part of the overall OFA database which is also available to the public.

The PennHIP Evaluation

Here too, a network of veterinarians trained to perform this process provides all the X-rays sent to the PennHIP center, where they are further evaluated.

The PennHIP evaluation, which stands for University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program, can be performed as early as 16 weeks of age. Basically, three separate X-rays are taken that shows the depth and fit of the ball in the hip socket, the amount of hip laxity as well as any existing joint degeneration.
What can we do to prevent hip dysplasia? Easily the best way to create the most positive genetic changes would be to require breeders to breed only German Shepherd Dogs having certified tight hips which are officially confirmed through diagnostic testing such as the OFA or PennHIP.

Obviously, the main objective of any responsible selective breeding program is to maximize the pairing of good genes by breeding healthy, hip dysplasia free dogs.

Testing for hip dysplasia is a very important part of owning a German Shepherd. It is important information to help you know the current structure of your dogs hips in order to completely understand what you may be able to expect of your dog as it matures not to mention the whole question of breeding quality and the like.

Knowing the true condition of your dogs hips also allows you to prepare for the the possible risk of arthritis as well as the ability of planning to adjust environmental factors, such as diet and exercise, to stop or lower the risk of arthritis in your own German Shepherd. It's always better to be prepared in the case of your dogs health.

Walkabout Back Harness Touted by veterinary surgeons as the most effective walking aid for dogs with hip dysplasia, arthritis, spinal trauma, and fatigue. Provides safe, secure, comfortable support for dog's rear end. Neoprene, with secure Velcro and buckle closures for easy on/off. Machine washable. Sizes: S, M, M/L, L, XL (please see size chart, above).

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