Which gait change is consistent with hip dysplasia?

Which gait change is consistent with hip dysplasia?

• A. Bunny hop
• B. Waddling gait
• C. Plantigrade stance
• D. Circling behavior

Answer: (A)

Hip dysplasia creates pain and instability in the hind hips, so animals instinctively adopt a gait that minimizes hip strain. The resulting pattern is a bunny hop: the hind legs move together in a short, synchronized kick rather than alternating normally, and the body may momentarily lift as the weight shifts forward. This two-beat, compact motion helps lessen painful hip extension and joint loading during movement. Other gaits don’t fit this pattern as well. A waddling gait is more about broad-based weakness or pelvic instability from various causes, a plantigrade stance reflects different foot placement issues, and circling behavior points toward neurological or vestibular problems.

Hip dysplasia creates pain and instability in the hind hips, so animals instinctively adopt a gait that minimizes hip strain. The resulting pattern is a bunny hop: the hind legs move together in a short, synchronized kick rather than alternating normally, and the body may momentarily lift as the weight shifts forward. This two-beat, compact motion helps lessen painful hip extension and joint loading during movement.

Other gaits don’t fit this pattern as well. A waddling gait is more about broad-based weakness or pelvic instability from various causes, a plantigrade stance reflects different foot placement issues, and circling behavior points toward neurological or vestibular problems.