Canine hip dysplasia is one of the most commonly seen orthopedic disea
ses of the dog. Diagnosis in advanced cases is relatively easy, but re
cognition of the early stages in young dogs may be more challenging. T
here are many medical and surgical treatments described. Selection of
the best medical and/or surgical treatment for any given patient may b
e difficult. In this first part of the two-part article, diagnosis, tr
eatment, and conservative therapy will be explored.