BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme

The main purpose of the British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club (BVA/KC) Hip Dysplasia Scheme is the examination of radiographs of hips of dogs for hip dysplasia and the issue of a certificate in respect of that examination.

Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is a congenital disease that causes the hip joints in affected dogs to grow abnormally. This causes the joint to become loose and wobbly and eventually leads to a form of arthritis which is commonly referred to as degenerative joint disease.

All radiographs submitted to the Hip Dysplasia Scheme are assessed by means of scoring. The hip score is the sum of the points awarded for each of nine radiographic features of both hip joints.

The lower the score the less the degree of hip dysplasia present. The minimum (best) score for each hip is zero and the maximum (worst) is 53 giving a possible range of 0-106.

The BVA publish a list of the Breed Median Scores. They recommend that breeders wishing to reduce the risk of hip dysplasia should choose stock with scores below the breed median score.

The 5 year Breed Median Score for the Rottweiler is 8.0.

More Hip Score Information (opens a new window)

BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme is a mandatory test for the following breeds :

BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme is a recommended test for the following breeds :

BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme is an optional test for the following breeds :

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