Many types of dogs (breeds and non-breeds) are at risk of developing a condition known as hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a common inherited problem that means one or both of the hip joints develop abnormally. Abnormalities in the hip joints can be present from a young age, and will change and become progressively worse as the puppy becomes more active - leading to wear and tear on the joints impacting the function of the hips. This can be painful and have serious effects on the health and wellfare of the dog.

There are some breeds and dog-types, especially medium to larger breeds, where the risks of hip dysplasia appear to be more common. Screening at an early age, and selecting breeding pairs based on good hip scores and/or estimated breeding values for hip dysplasia can reduce the inherited risks of this condition.

Screening for hip dysplasia helps owners to access early, preventative care for their dog, and allows breeders to make informed decisions when deciding whether to breed from their dog. Screening programs for hip dysplasia are a cornerstone of many responsible breeding strategies.