Strong Hips, Stronger Future: Your Guide to Hip Dysplasia Testing

April 20, 2025
By Paige Adams, DVM

Hip Dysplasia is an abnormal formation of the hip socket that can cause osteoarthritis of the joints which leads to pain and associated limping. This is a genetic condition that is also affected by environmental factors. There is a hip replacement surgery that can be performed by a board certified veterinary orthopedic surgeon, but it is not commonly performed due to the cost and amount of recovery time associated with it.

There are two main assessment methods for Canine Hip Dysplasia and Osteoarthritis.

OFA Hip Radiographs

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is a longstanding association that has created standards for each breed in relation to orthopedic structure. When we take OFA Hip radiographs (X-rays) we take one view, specifically the extended hip view. Dogs should be sedated for this procedure to ensure the best views, but it is not required. Dogs must be at least 24 months of age for this procedure. The radiograph is then subjectively evaluated by a board certified veterinary radiologist and given a “grade”. The grades are Normal (Excellent, Good, Fair), Borderline, and Dysplastic (Mild, Moderate, Severe).For more information on this procedure you can visit the OFA’s website.

PennHIP X-Rays

PennHIP (Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program) is a scientifically proven method to evaluate hip laxity, or looseness, in dogs. This relatively new, but very researched and proven radiographic procedure was first developed by Dr. Gail Smith at the University of Pennsylvania Unlike traditional hip X-rays, which primarily assess the current state of the hip joint, PennHIP focuses on measuring the likelihood of future hip dysplasia development by evaluating both the bones and soft tissue structures of the hips. This method can be used as early as 16 weeks of age, allowing for early intervention and prevention strategies.

How Does the PennHIP Procedure Work?

A veterinarian has to be specifically trained and certified to perform PennHip radiographs. Specific equipment is used and sedation is mandatory to ensure the dog is relaxed and immobile so the best images can be obtained.The PennHIP procedure involves taking three different radiographs (X-ray views) of your dog’s hips to measure joint laxity. These views must be taken in this specific order. 

All radiographs taken must be submitted to a board certified radiologist for evaluation using an objective measurement of the distraction index (DI). Ideally the DI should be as close to 0.30 as possible as this low number indicates minimal joint laxity and a very low to no risk of developing hip dysplasia.

Benefits of PennHIP X-Rays

1. Early Detection: Identifies hip dysplasia risk as early as 4 months of age, long before symptoms appear. This allows for early intervention and hopefully being able to delay symptoms and preserve joint health as long as possible. 
2. Improved Breeding Decisions: Helps breeders select dogs with lower risk, reducing the prevalence of hip dysplasia in future generations.
3. Customized Care Plans: Allows veterinarians to recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or supplements to slow or prevent disease progression.
4. Scientific Accuracy: Provides a more reliable and detailed assessment compared to traditional X-rays.

Who Should Consider PennHIP Testing?

1. Breeders: Essential for responsible breeding practices.
2. Owners of At-Risk Breeds: Larger breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers are particularly prone to hip dysplasia.
3. Pet Owners Planning Preventative Care: Early testing allows you to take steps to protect your dog’s joints through diet, exercise, and supplements.
4. Owners of Dog Athletes: Dogs who participate in sports such as agility, disc, dock diving, etc that are high impact sports to ensure if they are good candidates for that type of exercise or not. 

What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Pre-Procedure Evaluation: Your vet will perform a physical exam and may recommend bloodwork to ensure your dog is a good candidate for anesthesia.
2. The X-Rays: The procedure itself typically takes less than an hour, including the time for positioning and imaging.
3. Results: The X-rays are analyzed by a radiologist to calculate a “distraction index” (DI), a numerical score that indicates the degree of hip laxity. Lower DI scores mean tighter hips and lower risk of hip dysplasia.
4. Follow-Up: Your vet will discuss the results and provide recommendations based on your dog’s specific needs.

Cost of PennHIP X-Rays

PennHIP X-rays may cost more than traditional hip evaluations, typically ranging between $400 and $900. This includes anesthesia, radiographs, and interpretation by certified veterinarians. The long-term benefits, however, often outweigh the upfront expense.

Caring for Your Dog’s Hips

If your dog is at risk for hip dysplasia based on PennHIP results, there are several steps you can take to support joint health:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint strain.
• Provide regular, low-impact exercise like swimming or walking.
• Consider supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, OMEGA 3’s, and more.
• Follow veterinary recommendations for medications or physical therapy if needed.

Why Choose PennHIP?

PennHIP X-rays offer unmatched accuracy and predictive power, making them the gold standard for hip dysplasia assessment. Whether you’re a breeder, an owner of a high-risk breed, or simply want the best for your dog, PennHIP testing provides valuable insights that can shape your pet’s health for years to come.

Protect Your Pet’s Future

Here at Etowah Veterinary Hospital we perform both OFA and PennHip radiographs. Due to the overwhelming evidence that PennHip is much more accurate at detecting which dogs will go on to develop hip dysplasia, we recommend that procedure over OFA or in addition to OFA Hip radiographs. Please call us or contact us with any questions you have about these procedures or hip dysplasia in general. We would love to work with you and your dog to ensure they have a long, happy, and pain free life!