Quick Answer: Bunny hopping (moving both rear legs together instead of alternating) is typically a sign of hip discomfort, most commonly hip dysplasia. Dogs adopt this gait because it reduces painful rotation in the hip joints. If your dog bunny hops, see your vet for assessment. Early intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes.
You're watching your dog run across the park.
Something looks odd. Instead of their back legs moving one at a time, they're hopping with both together. Like a rabbit.
It might look cute or funny. It's not.
Bunny hopping is your dog's way of telling you their hips hurt.
What Is Bunny Hopping?
Normal running gait involves the rear legs moving alternately. Left leg forward, right leg back, then switch. Each hip rotates independently.
Bunny hopping is when a dog moves both rear legs together simultaneously, creating a hopping motion. The hips move as a unit rather than independently.
Why dogs do this:
Moving both legs together reduces the rotation required in each hip joint. If hip movement is painful, this gait minimises that pain.
It's a compensatory mechanism. Your dog has figured out that this way of moving hurts less.
What Causes Bunny Hopping?
Hip dysplasia (most common cause)
- Malformed hip sockets cause instability
- The ball of the femur doesn't fit properly in the socket
- Movement causes pain and inflammation
- Bunny hopping reduces painful hip rotation
Other possible causes:
- Spinal issues: Problems in the lower spine affecting rear leg movement
- Bilateral cruciate disease: Both knees affected (less common)
- Neurological conditions: Affecting coordination of rear legs
- Severe arthritis: In both hips
The key point: Bunny hopping almost always indicates bilateral (both sides) involvement. If only one hip or leg were affected, the dog would limp rather than hop.
Recognising Bunny Hopping
What to watch for:
- Both rear legs moving together when running or trotting
- Normal walking gait but abnormal running gait
- More pronounced when moving fast
- May also struggle with stairs
- Reluctance to jump
- Stiffness after rest
When it appears:
- Can start as young as 5-6 months in severe hip dysplasia
- Often first noticed at 1-2 years as the dog matures
- Can develop gradually in older dogs with progressing arthritis
It's easier to see from behind. Watch your dog moving away from you. The hopping motion is most obvious from this angle.
What to Do If Your Dog Bunny Hops
Step 1: See your vet
Don't wait. Bunny hopping indicates significant joint involvement. Your vet will:
- Assess hip range of motion
- Check for pain response
- Likely recommend X-rays
- Determine the underlying cause
- Discuss treatment options
Step 2: Don't push exercise
Until you know what's happening, reduce high-impact activity:
- Lead walks only
- No running or chasing games
- Avoid stairs if possible
- Use ramps for car access
Step 3: Document what you're seeing
Video your dog moving if possible. This helps your vet see the gait even if your dog is nervous in the clinic.
Treatment Options for Hip Dysplasia
If hip dysplasia is diagnosed, treatment depends on severity, age, and other factors:
Conservative management (mild to moderate cases)
- Weight management (critical)
- Controlled exercise
- Pain medication when needed
- Joint supplements
- Physiotherapy
- Environmental modifications
Surgical options (severe cases or younger dogs)
- Juvenile pubic symphysiodesis: For puppies under 20 weeks
- Triple/double pelvic osteotomy: For young dogs
- Femoral head ostectomy (FHO): Removes femoral head
- Total hip replacement: Best long-term outcome for severe cases
Your vet will recommend the best approach for your specific situation.
How Collagen Supports Dogs with Hip Problems
Collagen is the structural protein in cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and the joint capsule. Supplementing with hydrolysed collagen peptides provides building blocks for these tissues.
For dogs with hip dysplasia or hip arthritis:
Mobility & Joints combines collagen peptides with glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins C and E. This comprehensive formula supports multiple aspects of joint health.
Follow serving guide on pouch based on your dog's weight.
What supplements can and cannot do:
- Can: Support joint health, reduce inflammation, slow cartilage breakdown, improve comfort
- Cannot: Fix structural problems, cure hip dysplasia, replace surgery if needed
Supplements are part of a management plan, not a cure. They work best alongside weight management, appropriate exercise, and veterinary care.
Living with a Bunny Hopping Dog
If your dog has hip problems causing bunny hopping, you can still give them a good life:
Environmental modifications:
- Rugs on slippery floors (stability prevents injuries)
- Ramps for car and furniture
- Orthopaedic bed (supports joints during rest)
- Raised food and water bowls
Exercise modifications:
- Steady walks rather than running
- Swimming if available (excellent for hip problems)
- Mental stimulation to compensate for reduced physical activity
- Little and often rather than long sessions
Weight management:
Absolutely critical. Extra weight dramatically worsens hip problems. Keep your dog lean.
Consistent supplementation:
Daily joint support helps maintain whatever joint health remains.
Breeds Most Prone to Bunny Hopping
While any dog can develop hip problems, these breeds are most commonly affected:
- German Shepherds
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Rottweilers
- Great Danes
- Saint Bernards
- Bulldogs
- Mastiffs
If you have one of these breeds and notice bunny hopping, hip dysplasia is a strong possibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
My puppy bunny hops. Is that normal?
Puppies sometimes hop when playing, but consistent bunny hopping during normal movement is not normal at any age. Young dogs with hip dysplasia often show signs early. See your vet.
Can bunny hopping be fixed?
The gait itself often improves with treatment (conservative or surgical) because the underlying pain is addressed. However, structural hip problems typically require ongoing management.
My dog only bunny hops sometimes. Should I worry?
Yes. Intermittent bunny hopping still indicates hip discomfort. It might only appear when your dog is tired, has exercised more than usual, or after rest. Worth investigating.
Is bunny hopping the same as limping?
No. Limping typically indicates a problem with one leg. Bunny hopping indicates problems affecting both hips (bilateral). Different presentations, potentially different causes.
Which Product for Dogs Who Bunny Hop?
- Diagnosed hip dysplasia or arthritis: Mobility & Joints
- Post-surgery support: Pure Collagen (with vet approval on timing)
- Dog who's lost appetite due to discomfort: Beef Bone Broth
Follow serving guide on your chosen product's pouch based on your dog's weight.
Sources
- Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) hip dysplasia information
- Ginja MM, et al. Diagnosis, genetic control and preventive management of canine hip dysplasia. The Veterinary Journal, 2010
- British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club Hip Dysplasia Scheme
- Canine Arthritis Management UK
Important: This information is for educational purposes and doesn't replace veterinary advice. If your dog is bunny hopping, consult your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention gives the best outcomes.
Last Updated: February 2026
