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My 3-month Pyrenees puppy has back leg pain & bunny hops. Hip dysplasia?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Great Pyrenees | Female | unspayed | 17 lbs

3 month old pyrenees puppy is having pain in her back legs, when she runs both of her legs jump up together. She's been very inactive lately and won't walk much. Her vet is out of town for a while, is it possible that she has hip dysplasia?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on September 25th, 2017

Yes, this can be a sign of poor hip conformation or hip dysplasia. Usually dogs with hip joint laxity run with both rear legs together or bunny hop. As Coco is still growing the pain also could be due to panosteitis which is pain in the bones from growing too fast. I recommend switching her to adult large breed dog food so she will grow slower. She will still reach her full size, it just may take a little longer. Adult food is fine for all ages so you do not need to be worried, she will still get the nutrition she needs. Your veterinarian can feel her hip joints for laxity, but X-rays are not conclusive until she is six months or older. It is best to exercise Coco on a leash and prevent running and jumping. Your veterinarian may also prescribe pain medication to make her. more comfortable. While hip dysplasia can cause arthritis later in life, many dogs go through short painful episodes, then they are pain free for long periods of time. If she has poor hip conformation she shouldn't have puppies as they may have bad hips also. Keeping Coco active, thin and well muscled in addition to joint supplements and pain medication when needed will give Coco the best chance to live a normal active life. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Coco.

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