Defining and Understanding Total Hip Replacement in Dogs

What Is It?

Total Hip Replacement replaces the painful hip joint with medical grade implants. The femoral head and neck are removed and a new ball is attached to the femur. A matching cup is placed in the pelvis. The goal is to restore pain free motion and stable function when arthritis or deformity has destroyed the joint.

Who Gets It?

  • Dogs with severe hip dysplasia and advanced arthritis.
  • Dogs with chronic hip pain that no longer respond to medical management.
  • Some traumatic injuries that damage the hip joint beyond repair.

Signs Owners May Notice

  • Lameness or stiffness after rest that improves then worsens with activity.
  • Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or rise from the floor.
  • Muscle loss over the hip and increased shoulder bulk from shifting weight forward.
  • Pain on hip extension or rotation during veterinary exam.

How Is It Diagnosed?

A veterinarian evaluates gait, hip range of motion, and pain. Radiographs are used to confirm arthritis or joint deformity and to plan implant sizing. Dogs are screened for overall health to ensure anesthesia and recovery are safe.

Why Consider Total Hip Replacement?

THR provides the most complete restoration of normal hip mechanics when conservative care or procedures like FHO are unlikely to meet activity goals. Many dogs return to comfortable walking and controlled play when implants replace the painful joint surfaces.

Why You Should See a Veterinary Surgeon

THR requires specialized training, precise planning, and advanced equipment. A board certified surgeon selects implant type, size, and fixation method, then manages anesthesia, pain control, and structured aftercare to reduce risks and protect results.

What Does Surgery Involve? (High Level)

Under anesthesia, the diseased femoral head and neck are removed. The femoral canal is prepared for a stem and ball. The pelvic socket is reshaped for a new cup. Implants are placed and stability is checked. Dogs are hospitalized for monitoring, pain control, and assisted early standing as directed by the surgeon.

Risks and Recovery Expectations

Potential risks include infection, implant loosening, luxation of the new joint, fracture, or delayed healing if activity is not restricted. Most healthy candidates improve quickly in comfort. Full recovery requires weeks of controlled activity while soft tissues heal and strength returns.

What Is Post-Op Like?

  • First 2 weeks: Strict rest in a crate or pen. Short leash walks for toileting with a harness or sling as directed. E cone on at all times to protect the incision. Keep bedding clean and dry.
  • Weeks 3 to 6: Controlled leash walking increases gradually. No running, stairs, or slippery floors. Recheck visits confirm healing and implant position.
  • Weeks 7 to 12: Guided strengthening and range of motion progress under veterinary direction. Return to normal activity is staged and only after clearance.

Benefits of Physical Rehabilitation

  • Pain and swelling control: Safe modalities improve comfort and reduce guarding.
  • Range of motion: Gentle exercises maintain hip movement without stressing implants.
  • Strength and symmetry: Progressive plans rebuild gluteal and core muscles to support gait.
  • Gait retraining: Helps restore even weight bearing and safe walking.

How to Help Your Dog at Home

  • Follow the surgeon's instructions: Activity control and cone use are essential.
  • Non slip surfaces: Add rugs or runners and block stairs and furniture.
  • Harness and leash: Use a well fitted body harness. A sling may be advised early for support.
  • Incision care: Keep the area clean and dry. Do not allow licking or chewing. Call if redness, swelling, discharge, or a bad odor is seen.
  • Bedding management: Provide thick, supportive bedding. Change damp pads promptly to prevent urine scald or skin irritation.
  • Weight management: Keep a lean body condition to reduce stress on the new joint.

Tips for Success

  • Practice cone use early: Short positive sessions before surgery make full time use easier afterward.
  • Confinement training: Introduce a crate or pen before surgery so rest feels familiar and safe.
  • Traction and layout: Create a short, level route for toileting and block slippery zones.
  • Enrichment: Use food puzzles and calm training to reduce frustration while activity is restricted.
  • Daily log: Track comfort, limb use, incision appearance, and any concerns for recheck visits.

Prognosis

Many dogs experience a major improvement in comfort and mobility after Total Hip Replacement. Outcomes are strongest when candidates are screened carefully, owners follow activity restrictions, and rehabilitation supports a gradual return to function.