A dog dislocated hip is an emergency that can cause severe pain and sudden loss of mobility. It usually occurs after trauma such as a fall or accident, when the ball of the thigh bone slips out of the hip socket. For pet parents, seeing their dog unable to walk is alarming, but knowing the right steps can make a huge difference in recovery.
I. Recognising the Emergency
• Sudden refusal to put weight on one hind leg
• A limb that appears shorter than the other
• Abnormal outward or inward rotation of the affected leg
• Pain and distress when the hip area is touched
• Difficulty balancing or standing
II. Immediate Actions to Take
Once you suspect a dog dislocated hip, it is vital to remain calm and avoid making the injury worse.
• Keep your dog as still as possible and restrict movement
• Do not attempt to push the joint back yourself
• If you need to move your dog, use a blanket or towel as a stretcher
• Contact your vet straight away and describe the symptoms
• Follow professional advice about safe transport and urgent care
III. Veterinary Treatment Options
Only a veterinarian can properly diagnose and treat a dog dislocated hip. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the stability of the joint.
• Closed reduction: under anaesthesia, the joint is carefully placed back into position and supported with bandages or a sling
• Open reduction or surgery: if the joint is unstable or repeatedly dislocates, surgical options such as femoral head removal (FHO) or total hip replacement (THR) may be necessary
• Supportive aids: during recovery, mobility aids such as a dog wheelchair can reduce strain on the hips and allow safe movement
IV. Caring for Your Dog During Recovery
Recovery after a dog dislocated hip requires patience and consistent care at home. Your support helps your dog heal and regain mobility.
• Restrict activity and prevent running, jumping, or climbing stairs
• Provide a soft, supportive bed to reduce pressure on the hip
• Administer prescribed pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication from your vet
• Use a supportive harness or consider a dog wheelchair to assist mobility during recovery
• Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress
V. Reducing the Risk of Future Complications
Even after treatment, a dog dislocated hip can sometimes recur. Ongoing management is key to protecting long-term health.
• Maintain an appropriate weight to lessen strain on the hips
• Build muscle strength with controlled low impact exercise such as swimming
• Discuss joint supplements or rehabilitation therapies with your vet
• Adapt your home with safe flooring, ramps, or steps to make daily movement easier
In addition to post-treatment management, pet parents can also take everyday measures to protect their dog’s hips. For a more detailed look at daily strategies, see our article on how to prevent a dog dislocated hip.
VI. Q&A About a Dog Dislocated Hip
Q: Can a dog dislocated hip heal on its own without treatment?
A: No. Professional veterinary treatment is required. Attempting to treat it at home can cause permanent damage.
Q: How urgent is treatment for a dog dislocated hip?
A: It is an emergency. The sooner the hip is treated, the higher the chance of successful recovery.
Q: Will my dog always need surgery if the hip is dislocated?
A: Not always. Some cases can be managed with closed reduction, though surgery may be required if the joint is unstable or dislocates repeatedly.
Q: Can my dog walk normally again after a dog dislocated hip?
A: Yes. With proper treatment and care, many dogs regain full mobility, although recovery time varies.
Q: Are mobility aids useful during recovery?
A: Yes. A dog wheelchair or supportive harness can help your dog move safely while healing.
Q: My dog has recovered, do I still need to take extra precautions?
A: Yes. Dogs that have recovered from a hip dislocation remain at risk of recurrence. Alongside check-ups and home care, it is wise to learn everyday prevention strategies, which we cover in detail in our article on how to prevent a dog dislocated hip.
A dog dislocated hip is painful, frightening, and disruptive, but the right response can give your dog the best chance of recovery. Treatment restores movement, while prevention protects it. If you would like to prepare ahead and safeguard your dog’s joints, our dedicated guide on preventing a dog dislocated hip offers practical advice for everyday life. By acting with care today, you can give your dog a future of steady steps and lasting comfort.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
