Hip Dysplasia in Senior Dogs: How to Tell the Difference Between Chronic Joint Pain and Normal Aging
It can be difficult to tell if changes in mobility or behavior are related to normal aging or your pet's condition if your older dog has hip dysplasia. Learning to recognize the difference can help you ensure that your furry friend's golden years are as pain-free as possible.
About Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is caused by an abnormality of the hip joint that prevents the femur (thigh bone) from gliding smoothly in the looser-than-normal joint. Hip dysplasia can cause pain with movement and may eventually lead to osteoarthritis. The condition commonly affects large dog breeds, including Bulldogs, Labradors, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds, according to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
If your dog has started to slow down, you might assume that aging is the reason. Although dogs do experience age-related changes, some of your pet's symptoms could be related to chronic joint pain.
Is It Aging or Chronic Joint Pain?
Older dogs may normally move a little slower, sleep more, or have less stamina on long walks. As long as your pet doesn't seem to be in pain or change the way it walks, runs, or jumps, these changes are probably related to aging.
Signs related to chronic joint pain caused by hip dysplasia include:
Bunny Hopping. Dogs with hip dysplasia may hop with their back legs together, particularly when they're trying to run.
Stiffness. Your pet may seem a little stiff after resting or waking up, although the stiffness might improve as your dog moves.
Limping. Pain and stiffness may cause a noticeable limp when your dog walks.
Hesitation. When every movement hurts, your dog may take a moment or two to prepare before jumping or might hesitate before walking up stairs.
Trouble Changing Position. Your pet may struggle to get comfortable and may constantly change position when sitting, lying down, or standing. Some dogs may circle more before lying down.
Disinterest in Usual Activities. A game of fetch or a long walk in the woods may no longer be appealing if your dog is suffering from chronic joint pain.
Muscle Loss. The muscles in the back legs may look smaller than the muscles in the front legs.
Bulkier Shoulder Muscles. As the muscles in the back legs weaken, the shoulder muscles grow stronger.
Licking or Chewing. Your dog may lick or chew the affected hip when in pain.
Irritability. Dogs suffering from chronic joint pain may be irritable or might not like to be touched.
Swaying. You may notice that your pet's hips sway when walking.
Weight Shifting. Your dog may shift its weight in an attempt to get comfortable.
Gait Changes. Has your dog started walking differently lately? Gait changes can be a sign of joint pain.
Treating Chronic Joint Pain
Treatments relieve joint pain, improve stiffness and mobility, and may slow the progression of arthritis. In addition to examining your pet, your veterinarian may use X-rays and blood tests to make a diagnosis.
Based on the diagnosis, one or more of these treatments, therapies, or strategies may be recommended:
Anti-Inflammatory Medication
Joint Supplements
Physical Therapy
Surgical Procedures to Replace the Hip or Reduce Pain
Weight Loss to Reduce Pressure on the Hips
Swimming, Walking or Other Low-Impact Forms of Exercise
Your veterinarian may also recommend regenerative medicine therapies, like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy. These therapies reduce inflammation, relieve pain, improve movement, regrow healthy tissue, and promote healing.
Is your dog struggling with chronic joint pain due to hip dysplasia? We offer helpful treatments that can improve your furry friend's comfort. Contact our office to schedule an appointment with the veterinarian.
Sources:
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Canine Hip Dysplasia, 11/20/2025
American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation: Healing Dogs with Their Own Cells: The Promise of Regenerative Medicine, 8/19/2025
Merck Veterinary Manual: Hip Dysplasia, 9/2024
https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/bone-joint-and-muscle-disorders-of-dogs/hip-dysplasia
American Kennel Club: Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, 10/27/2025
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/hip-dysplasia-in-dogs/
American Kennel Club: Aging in Dogs: Physical and Mental Signs Your Dog Is Getting Older, 3/31/2026
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/aging-in-dogs-physical-mental-signs/
