Hip dysplasia occurs in dogs who have an abnormal development of the hip joint in which the femur doesn't fit correctly into the hip socket. Certain breeds are more prone to hip dysplasia, including German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Rottweilers. Further, male dogs are more likely to develop hip dysplasia than female dogs.

Hip dysplasia can affect dogs to varying degrees. The effects may be mild or it can lead to severe arthritis. Because the disease deteriorates and weakens the dog's hips, it can be crippling. Symptoms may include the following: abnormal gait; difficulty standing or sitting up; discomfort form running or jumping; lameness in the back legs; and swaying or staggering.