Hip dysplasia is one of the most common orthopedic conditions affecting dogs, especially large and giant breeds. This developmental disorder causes the hip joint to form improperly, leading to looseness (laxity), instability, pain, and eventually arthritis. While some dogs require surgery to correct severe dysplasia, canine rehabilitation and physical therapy can dramatically improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life at any stage.
At the Animal Rehabilitation Center of Michigan (ARC), we specialize in gentle, science-based therapies that help dogs move with confidence, build strength, and maintain long-term joint health—even when hip dysplasia is part of their story. Below, we look at canine rehabilitation for hip dysplasia and how physical therapy can help with that.
Understanding Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
In a healthy hip, the ball (femoral head) fits securely into the socket (acetabulum). With hip dysplasia, the joint is either too loose, too shallow, or uneven, causing grinding, inflammation, and pain with movement.
Common signs include:
- Difficulty rising, jumping, or climbing stairs
- Bunny-hopping gait
- Swaying or weak hindquarters
- Decreased activity or reluctance to exercise
- Muscle loss in the hind end
- Painful hips when touched
Hip dysplasia can be genetic, developmental, or related to rapid growth, nutrition, or certain exercise patterns. Fortunately, rehabilitation plays a major therapeutic role for dysplastic dogs at all life stages.
How Rehabilitation Helps Dogs With Hip Dysplasia
Canine rehabilitation can’t change the physical structure of the hip joint, but it can strengthen the muscles that stabilize the joint, reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and significantly decrease discomfort. For many dogs, physical therapy can delay or in rare cases, eliminate the need for surgery.
Here are the most effective therapeutic approaches for hip dysplasia:
Hydrotherapy (Underwater Treadmill)
Water reduces body weight on painful joints while providing resistance to build strength. This helps dogs:
- Strengthen hip and core muscles
- Improve range of motion
- Build endurance
- Exercise comfortably without pain
Hydrotherapy is often one of the first treatments recommended for dysplastic dogs.
Therapeutic Exercise Programs
Targeted therapeutic exercises help dogs build the strength and balance needed to stabilize loose hips. Programs may include:
- Sit-to-stands
- Cavaletti poles
- Balance discs and physio balls
- Hind-end strengthening
- Controlled leash walks
These exercises are tailored to each dog’s unique mobility level and pain tolerance.
Laser Therapy
Cold laser therapy helps reduce:
- Inflammation
- Pain
- Muscle spasms
- Joint stiffness
It also promotes tissue healing and can be a valuable addition to a multimodal pain management plan.
Manual Therapy & Massage
Techniques such as stretching, myofascial release, and soft-tissue mobilization help:
- Reduce compensatory muscle tension
- Improve flexibility
- Enhance circulation
- Support better overall mobility
Dogs with hip dysplasia often overuse certain muscles to “protect” the hip—manual therapy helps correct that imbalance.
Weight Management & Nutrition Guidance
Excess body weight adds strain to dysplastic hips. Part of rehabilitation includes:
- Weight assessment
- Diet recommendations
- Safe, low-impact exercise planning
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective long-term management strategies.
Pain Management & Supportive Tools
Physical therapy works best when paired with appropriate pain control. Your rehabilitation veterinarian may recommend:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Joint supplements
- Acupuncture
- Modalities like TENS therapy
- Assistive devices (harnesses, slings, orthopedic beds, traction boots)
These tools help keep pets comfortable while their strength and mobility improve.
When Is Surgery Needed?
Some dogs benefit from corrective surgery—such as a total hip replacement (THR), femoral head ostectomy (FHO), or juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS). Even in these cases, pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation helps dogs recover faster and regain function more fully.
Helping Your Dog Live Comfortably With Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia doesn’t have to limit your dog’s joy or mobility. With the right combination of therapies, pain management, and supportive care, many dogs live long, comfortable, active lives.
At the Animal Rehabilitation Center of Michigan, our team develops customized treatment plans based on your dog’s age, mobility level, pain tolerance, and goals. Whether your dog is newly diagnosed or already living with hip dysplasia-related arthritis, canine rehabilitation for hip dysplasia can make a meaningful difference.
Ready to help your dog feel—and move—better? Visit dogrehabmi.com or call us at 248-363-5061 to schedule a consultation.