Hip and Elbow Scoring at Shepton and Wells Vets
Understanding Hip and Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs
Hip and elbow dysplasia are common orthopedic conditions that affect many dog breeds, particularly medium to large breeds. These developmental disorders occur when the joints do not form correctly, resulting in abnormal wear and tear over time. As the condition progresses, it can lead to joint instability, pain, and eventually arthritis—a degenerative disease that significantly affects a dog’s quality of life, mobility, and comfort in later years. Some of the breeds that are most commonly at risk are –
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- German Shepherd Dog
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Newfoundland
- Rottweiler
Causes and Risk Factors
Both hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong genetic basis, meaning the risk can be inherited from parent dogs. Environmental factors such as rapid growth, obesity, and inappropriate exercise during puppyhood may also influence the severity of the condition. Because of the hereditary nature, responsible breeding practices are essential. Screening dogs for these conditions helps breeders make informed decisions, reducing the likelihood of passing on the disorders to future generations.
Hip and Elbow Scoring at Shepton and Wells Vets
At Shepton and Wells Vets, we provide professional hip and elbow scoring services at our Shepton practice as part of our commitment to supporting ethical breeding and long-term animal health. Dogs must be at least 12 months old and microchipped for identification. The scoring process involves placing your dog under general anaesthesia and taking high-quality x-rays: two views of each elbow (flexed and extended) and a standard ventrodorsal view of the hips. These images are then submitted to the British Veterinary Association (BVA) for expert evaluation.
How the BVA Scoring System Works
Under the BVA scoring system, each hip is assessed on multiple criteria and given a score between 0 (perfect) and 53 (severely affected), with a total maximum score of 106. Lower scores indicate healthier hips, and most breeders aim to use dogs with scores below the breed median. Elbows are scored separately from 0 to 3, with 0 indicating no signs of dysplasia. A score of 1, 2, or 3 reflects increasing severity of joint changes. Breeding from dogs with a score of 0 is strongly encouraged to help prevent the condition from being passed on.
Our Support for Breeders and Dog Owners
If you are a breeder or dog owner concerned about hip or elbow dysplasia, or if you want to check your dog’s health before breeding, our experienced team at Shepton and Wells Vets is here to help. We are happy to discuss the process with you, explain the results, and offer advice tailored to your dog’s individual needs.
Contact Us for More Information
For more information or to book an appointment, please contact us on 01749 343955.
