What is hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition where the hip joint does not form properly.

 

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint:

• The ball (femoral head) should sit snugly inside

• The socket (acetabulum) should provide good coverage

 

In hip dysplasia:

• The joint is loose (lax)

• The ball does not fit tightly in the socket

• This leads to abnormal movement, joint wear, and eventually arthritis

 

Why this matters?

Over time, hip dysplasia can cause pain, reduced mobility, early-onset arthritis, and may require major surgery later in life. Hip dysplasia begins early in life, even before symptoms appear. The x-ray below shows a patient's hips with hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis.

 

What is JPS?

Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS) is a preventative surgical procedure performed in young puppies to reduce the risk of developing hip dysplasia. It works by altering the growth of the pelvis, allowing the hip sockets to better cover the femoral heads as your puppy grows.
 

What are the signs that my pet might have hip dysplasia?

 

Many puppies with hip laxity show very subtle or no signs early on, but possible signs include:

 

• Bunny-hopping when running

• Reluctance to jump or climb stairs

• Hindlimb stiffness, especially after rest

• Swaying or waddling gait

• Sitting with one leg out to the side (“lazy sit”)

• Reduced activity or tiring quickly

 

How do we identify hip laxity?

We assess hip laxity using a combination of:

• Physical examination

• Ortolani test & Barden’s test (checking for hip looseness under sedation)

• Radiographs (X-rays)

  • Specialised positioning (e.g. PennHIP method)

  • Measurement of the Distraction Index (DI) (0-1. 0 = no laxity 1 = high laxity)

 

When is JPS recommended?

• Patients with a high DI ≥ 0.4–0.5 (moderate to severe laxity)

• Best outcomes when performed early (12–20 weeks of age)

• Generally not effective after approximately 20 weeks

 

How does JPS work?

• A small area of the pubic growth plate is cauterised

• This stops growth at the front of the pelvis

• The rest of the pelvis continues to grow normally

 

This results in:

• Rotation of the hip sockets (acetabula)

• Improved coverage of the femoral heads

• Reduced risk of arthritis later in life

• What are the benefits?

• Minimally invasive procedure

• Short anaesthetic time

• Can significantly reduce progression of hip dysplasia

• May prevent the need for major surgeries later (e.g. total hip replacement)

 

What are the risks?

As with any surgery, there are some risks:

• Anaesthetic risk (generally low in healthy puppies)

• Infection (rare)

• Over- or under-correction (uncommon)

• Continued development of hip dysplasia despite surgery

• Not effective if performed too late

 

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery is typically quick and straightforward:

• First 1–2 weeks

  • Restrict high-impact activity (no jumping or running)

  • Short, controlled leash walks only

  • Keep the incision clean and dry

• After 2 weeks

  • Gradual return to normal activity

  • Most puppies behave normally within days

• Long-term

  • Normal exercise once healed

  • Maintain a lean body weight

  • Consider joint-support strategies if recommended