Pet Insurance for Hip Dysplasia

What is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, causing the ball and socket to not fit together correctly. Over time, this leads to arthritis, pain, and decreased mobility. It is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs and one of the most expensive to treat, with total hip replacement costing $5,000–$12,000 per hip.

Symptoms

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves physical examination and X-rays (radiographs) of the hip joints. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and PennHIP provide standardized evaluation protocols. Advanced imaging (CT scan) may be used for surgical planning.

Treatment ranges from conservative management (weight control, exercise modification, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy) to surgical intervention. Surgical options include juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS) for puppies, femoral head ostectomy (FHO) for smaller dogs, and total hip replacement (THR) for larger dogs. THR is the gold standard but costs $5,000–$12,000 per hip.

Breeds at Risk

Insurance Coverage for Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is covered by most pet insurance carriers as a hereditary/genetic condition, provided it was not diagnosed or showing symptoms before enrollment. Some carriers impose waiting periods of 6–12 months for orthopedic conditions. Healthy Paws covers hip dysplasia from enrollment with no additional waiting period beyond the standard 15-day period.

Prevention Tips

While hip dysplasia is primarily genetic, environmental factors can influence severity. Maintaining a healthy weight is the single most important preventive measure. Avoid excessive exercise in puppies (especially on hard surfaces), provide joint supplements (glucosamine/chondroitin), and choose breeders who screen for hip dysplasia using OFA or PennHIP evaluations.