Hip dysplasia is an example of a degenerative disease. There are many etioligies, but there 
is no one single cause. Hip dysplasia is defined as the improper development of the 
coxofemoral joint, allowing subluxation and eventually leading to osteoarthritis. In this 
case, the likely contributing factors are genetics, size (large breeds are predisposed) and 
nutrition (she is fed free choice which could allow for rapid growth). Joint laxity (which 
corresponds to femoral head displacement), a strong indicator of hip dysplasia, was found 
bilaterally. Femoral head displacement was also evident on the ventro-dorsal radiograph. 
This dog is young and the displacement appeared minimal which is consistent with a Grade 
I lameness.