At a glance
- Hip dysplasia affects 24% to 36% of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, much higher than previously recognised
- Early signs include difficulty rising, reluctance to jump stairs, and a distinctive "bunny hopping" gait
- Weight control and low-impact exercise like swimming form the foundation of effective management
- Treatment options range from joint supplements and NSAIDs to surgical procedures like hip replacement
Recognising hip dysplasia in your Cavalier
You might notice your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel hesitating at the bottom of the stairs or taking longer to get up from their favourite sleeping spot. These subtle changes often mark the early stages of hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition where the hip joint develops abnormally, causing pain and eventual arthritis.
Many Cavalier King Charles Spaniel owners initially dismiss these signs as normal ageing, but research now shows that 24% to 36% of Cavaliers may be affected by this condition. That's significantly higher than experts previously thought, making awareness crucial for early intervention.
Watch for the telltale "bunny hopping" gait where your dog moves both back legs together rather than alternating steps. Other warning signs include stiffness after rest periods, limping that comes and goes, and a general reluctance to engage in activities they once enjoyed. As the condition progresses, you'll likely notice increased pain and reduced mobility that affects their daily quality of life.
Getting an accurate diagnosis
Suspecting hip dysplasia and confirming it are two different things. Definitive diagnosis requires hip x-rays taken under sedation or anaesthesia, allowing your veterinarian to position your dog properly for clear images of the joint structure.
Veterinarians use established scoring systems like OFA, PennHIP, or DLS to evaluate hip laxity and assess arthritis severity. These standardised measurements help determine the best treatment approach and provide valuable information for breeding decisions if you're considering that path.
For Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, the breed average hip score sits at 16, so responsible breeders should aim well below this number when selecting breeding pairs. If you're purchasing a puppy, asking for parental hip scores can give you insight into potential future issues.
Medical management strategies
Weight control forms the cornerstone of hip dysplasia management in these dogs. Every extra gram puts additional stress on already compromised joints, so maintaining an ideal body weight becomes crucial for long-term comfort. Cavaliers have a tendency toward weight gain, making this aspect particularly important for the breed.
Controlled, low-impact exercise helps maintain muscle mass without worsening joint damage. Swimming provides excellent muscle strengthening with minimal joint stress, while walks on soft surfaces like grass or sand offer gentler alternatives to concrete pavements. The key lies in consistency rather than intensity.
NSAIDs such as Galliprant or Rimadyl effectively reduce inflammation and manage arthritis pain secondary to hip dysplasia. These medications require veterinary supervision due to potential side effects, but they can significantly improve your dog's comfort levels when used appropriately.
Joint supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, omega-3 fatty acids, and manganese support ongoing joint health. Products like Cosequin are popular choices among owners, offering safe long-term use with potential benefits for slowing arthritis progression.
Alternative and physical therapies
Hydrotherapy, laser therapy, acupuncture, and stem cell therapy show promising results for improving mobility and reducing pain in Cavaliers with hip dysplasia. These treatments work particularly well as part of a comprehensive management plan rather than standalone solutions.
Stem cell therapy has shown success in some Cavalier King Charles Spaniel cases, promoting joint repair and reducing inflammation. While newer and more expensive than traditional treatments, it offers hope for dogs with moderate to severe dysplasia who aren't ideal surgical candidates.
Physical therapy techniques help maintain range of motion and muscle strength. Many veterinary practices now offer these services, or they can refer you to specialists who understand the specific needs of dogs with hip dysplasia.
Surgical options for severe cases
When conservative management isn't providing adequate relief, surgical intervention becomes necessary. The choice of procedure depends on your dog's age, dysplasia severity, and overall health status.
For young Cavaliers under 10 months old with developing dysplasia, Double or Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (DPO/TPO) can improve joint alignment by cutting and rotating pelvic bones. This procedure works best before significant arthritis develops, making early diagnosis crucial.
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) involves removing the femoral head to create a "false joint" that reduces pain. Common in small breeds like Cavaliers, this cost-effective option typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 per hip. While it doesn't restore normal joint function, it can dramatically improve quality of life.
Total Hip Replacement (THR) offers the most comprehensive solution for severe cases, replacing the entire joint with prosthetic implants. Costs range from $3,000 to $7,000 or more, but the procedure can restore near-normal function when performed by experienced surgeons.
Hip resurfacing represents an emerging option that's less invasive than total replacement. This procedure involves implanting a hollow cap over the femoral head with a matching socket cup, offering a middle ground between FHO and THR.
Prevention and breeding considerations
Responsible breeding practices offer the best hope for reducing hip dysplasia in future generations. Only breeding dogs with excellent hip scores, well below the breed average of 16, helps decrease genetic risk over time.
Early screening becomes particularly important for puppies from lines with known hip issues. Implementing preventive measures and monitoring development can make a significant difference in long-term outcomes.
Nutrition plays a supporting role in maintaining healthy joint development. Feeding a balanced diet formulated for joint health, possibly supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids and joint-supporting nutrients, provides the building blocks for strong, healthy joints.
When to seek veterinary help
Don't wait for obvious limping before consulting your veterinarian. Any signs of lameness, difficulty rising, reluctance to exercise, or behavioural changes suggesting pain warrant professional evaluation. Early diagnosis and intervention consistently improve outcomes and maintain quality of life longer.
Regular check-ups become even more important as your Cavalier ages, allowing your veterinarian to monitor joint health and adjust treatment plans as needed. The breed's predisposition to other health issues like mitral valve disease may influence anaesthesia and treatment decisions, making ongoing veterinary relationships crucial.
Remember that managing hip dysplasia requires patience and consistency. Most dogs respond well to comprehensive management plans that combine medical treatment, appropriate exercise, weight control, and regular monitoring. With proper care, many Cavaliers with hip dysplasia continue to live comfortable, active lives well into their senior years.
