Small Breed Dogs and Hip Dysplasia

by Katherine Khoo October 02, 2025 4 min read

When most people think of hip dysplasia in dogs, they imagine big breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, or Golden Retrievers. But did you know small dogs can get hip dysplasia too? In fact, some small breeds have surprisingly high rates of this painful condition. If you own a Pug, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu, Boston Terrier, or even certain terrier or toy breeds, it’s worth learning the signs, risks, and care options for hip dysplasia.

What Is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a joint condition where the hip doesn’t form properly. Instead of the ball-and-socket joint moving smoothly, the bones don’t fit together as they should. Over time, this causes joint instability, pain, arthritis, and mobility problems.

While it’s most often talked about in large breeds, research shows that small breeds are far from safe. For example, studies have found:

Pugs – over 60% show signs of hip dysplasia
French Bulldogs – about 31%
West Highland Terriers – 12%
Dachshunds – 3%

That’s a lot higher than most owners would expect.

Early Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Small Dogs

All dogs, big or small are good at hiding pain, so spotting the condition early can be tricky. Still, there are early warning signs you can look out for:

Bunny hopping when running (both back legs move together instead of one at a time)
Trouble climbing stairs or jumping on the couch
Stiffness or limping, especially after play or exercise
A “wobble” in the hips when walking
Reluctance to run, play, or go for walks
Pain or discomfort when you touch their hips

If you notice these symptoms, especially if your dog is still young, it’s worth checking with your vet. Catching hip dysplasia early can make a big difference in how it’s managed.

How Is Hip Dysplasia Diagnosed?

If your vet suspects hip dysplasia, they’ll usually recommend:

Physical exam – feeling how the hip moves and checking for signs of pain or looseness in the joint.
X-rays – the most reliable way to see how well the hip socket and ball fit together.
Advanced imaging (in some cases) – like CT scans, if more detail is needed.

Since symptoms can look like other problems (like arthritis or injury), proper diagnosis is key. A small dog with back or leg pain shouldn’t just be assumed to be “getting old” – hip dysplasia may be the real issue.

Common Treatments for Hip Dysplasia in Small Dogs

Treatment depends on how severe the condition is and the age of the dog. Options range from lifestyle changes to surgery.

Non-surgical management

Weight control – keeping your dog lean reduces pressure on the hips.
Exercise adjustments – short, regular walks are better than long, strenuous runs. And, swimming (if your dog enjoys it) can also help build strength without stress on the joints.
Joint supplements – products with glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM like the Kala Health ARTHRIX® (Hip & Joint) Joint Maintenance Supplement for Dogs and Cats, and bone broth may help keep your dog’s joints cushioned and flexible. Do include omega-3 fatty acids, especially omega-3 from Green Lipped Mussel Oil which contain a unique Omega-3 fatty acid not found in fish oil called ETA. This omega-3 fat is known for its ability to support a balanced inflammatory response for dogs with joint issues, reducing joint pain and improving mobility.
Medication – vets may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relief to manage discomfort.
Physical therapy – hydrotherapy, laser therapy, or simple strengthening exercises can improve mobility.
Bedding and living space – Set up your home with joint-friendly bedding and use ramps instead of making your dog tackle stairs or jump off furniture.

Surgical options

In severe cases, surgery may be the best route. Common procedures include:

Femoral head ostectomy (FHO) – removing part of the hip joint to reduce pain. This works well in small dogs, since their lighter weight makes recovery easier.
Total hip replacement (THR) – replacing the hip joint with an artificial one. This is the most effective but also the most costly option.

Not all dogs need surgery. It’s best to discuss with your veterinarian the best options for your dog’s condition.

How to Reduce My Small Dog’s Risk of Hip Dysplasia

Since hip dysplasia is mainly genetic, you can’t completely prevent it. But you can lower the chances of it developing or getting worse:

Choose responsible breeders – if you’re buying a puppy, ask for health screenings and family history of hip scores.
Maintain a healthy weight – extra pounds put unnecessary stress on the hips.
Feed a balanced, species and age-appropriate diet – poor nutrition during growth can affect bone development.
Avoid over-exercising puppies – young dogs shouldn’t be forced into long runs, high jumps, or rough play that stresses their joints.
Regular vet checks – early detection means better management.
Provide joint support early if your dog is at risk – even before problems show, supplements and low-impact exercise can help.

Prevention is about stacking the odds in your dog’s favor. A combination of genetics, good care, and smart management makes a big difference.

Living With a Small Dog With Hip Dysplasia

A hip dysplasia diagnosis doesn’t mean your dog’s quality of life is over. Many small dogs live long, happy lives with the condition, especially when managed early. You may need to adjust your routine, more controlled exercise, joint-friendly bedding, ramps instead of stairs, but your dog can still enjoy playtime, cuddles, and walks. The key is paying attention to changes in behaviour and not ignoring signs of discomfort. With the right care, small dogs with hip dysplasia can thrive.

Hip dysplasia isn’t just a “big dog problem.” Small breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus are also at risk and in surprisingly high numbers. Knowing the early signs, getting a proper diagnosis, and managing the condition with the right mix of care, medication, or surgery can help your dog stay active and happy. If you own a small breed, don’t assume hip dysplasia can’t affect them. Stay alert, keep your dog healthy, and work with your vet to give your pup the best chance at a pain-free life.