The most important thing to understand about hip dysplasia in Bernese Mountain Dogs is that this large, heavy breed has a genetic predisposition to the condition, and early signs can appear as young as 4 to 6 months old. Our editorial team emphasizes that being aware of subtle changes in your Berner’s movement is key to managing their comfort and quality of life.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to hip dysplasia due to their rapid growth and substantial body weight, which places extra stress on developing hip joints. Recognizing the signs early allows for interventions that can slow progression and reduce pain, helping your dog stay active and happy longer.
Changes in Gait and Movement
One of the earliest signs of hip dysplasia in Bernese Mountain Dogs is a change in how they walk or run. You may notice a swaying or waddling gait in the hindquarters, often described as a ‘bunny hop’ when they run, where both hind legs move together instead of alternately. This is because the dog is trying to minimize hip joint movement to avoid pain.
Berners often show a reluctance to jump into the car or onto furniture, and they may have difficulty climbing stairs. You might see them sit or lie down more frequently during walks, or they may tire quickly during exercise. Pay attention if your Berner seems to ‘bunny hop’ when going up slopes or stairs, as this is a classic sign of hip discomfort.
- Waddling or swaying hindquarters when walking.
- Bunny hopping gait, especially when running or climbing.
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or rise from a lying position.
Stiffness and Difficulty Rising
Bernese Mountain Dogs with hip dysplasia often show stiffness after rest, particularly first thing in the morning or after a long nap. You may see them take a few steps with a stiff hind end before ‘warming up’ and moving more normally. This is similar to arthritis in humans and is due to inflammation in the hip joints.
They might struggle to get up from a lying or sitting position, sometimes using their front legs to push themselves up while keeping their hind end low. In severe cases, a Berner may refuse to stand at all or cry out when attempting to rise. This reluctance can be mistaken for laziness, but it is a sign of pain.
- Stiffness after rest that improves with movement.
- Difficulty standing up, often with a ‘bunny hop’ rise.
- Reluctance to move or play, appearing lethargic.
Behavioral Changes and Pain Indicators
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, so any change in behavior can be a clue. A dog with hip dysplasia may become irritable or withdrawn, avoiding interaction or snapping when touched near the hips. They might also lick or chew at their hip area, trying to soothe the discomfort.
You may notice a decreased interest in activities they once loved, such as fetch or long walks. Some Berners develop a ‘guarding’ behavior, standing over their food bowl or toys to avoid moving. They might also have difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position, often shifting or getting up frequently during the night.
- Increased irritability or aggression when handled.
- Excessive licking or chewing at the hips.
- Loss of interest in play or exercise.
Physical Changes and Posture
Over time, hip dysplasia can lead to visible physical changes in your Bernese Mountain Dog. The muscles in the hind legs may atrophy (shrink) due to reduced use, while the shoulder muscles become more prominent from bearing extra weight. You might notice a ‘drooping’ of the hindquarters or a swayback appearance.
The dog may stand with its hind legs closer together than normal, or have a ‘sickle hock’ where the back legs are bent more than usual. In advanced cases, the hip joint may become loose, causing a ‘clicking’ sound when the dog walks. A veterinarian can perform an Ortolani test to detect joint laxity, which is a sign of dysplasia.
- Muscle wasting in the hind legs.
- Prominent shoulders and swayback posture.
- Audible clicking or popping from the hip joint.