The first signs of hip dysplasia in dogs often include decreased activity, difficulty or reluctance to rise, jump, run, or climb stairs, and a stiff or “bunny-hopping” gait. Early signs might also be subtle, such as hesitation when rising from rest or a slight change in posture or movement. Dogs may show stiffness, lameness in the hind legs, pain, and loss of muscle mass in the rear limbs. Over time, symptoms can worsen to include a decreased range of motion, swelling, and pain in the hip joints. Dogs might also shift their weight forward to the forelimbs to alleviate discomfort in the hind legs.

Specific Early Signs

• Decreased activity levels and reluctance to move
• Difficulty standing up, jumping, or climbing stairs
• Stiff or abnormal gait, sometimes described as "bunny hopping"
• Limping or lameness in the hind legs
• Loss of thigh muscle mass and muscle imbalances
• Pain or discomfort when hips are touched
• Weight shifting to the front legs to reduce hip strain

These signs can appear as early as four months to one year of age and sometimes get noticed later if arthritis develops due to the dysplasia. Since dogs often mask pain, these subtle signs are important to notice early and discuss with a veterinarian for diagnosis and management.