SCOA Health recommends that breeders complete hip xrays on all breeding dogs over the age of 2 years. Hip xrays is also a CHIC certificate requirement.

Hip xrays are done to evaluate the hip joint for signs of hip dysplasia, arthritic changes and/or joint laxity.

The 2 Official Organizations in North America that evaluate and certify hip xrays are Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program (PennHIP). Globally the FCI Clubs FCI Hips are authorized to evaluate and certify hip xrays and the British Veterinary Association (BVA) in the UK, BVA/UK Hips is the official organization to evaluate and certify hips.

Dogs must be 24 months or older for official assessment although “preliminary” xrays at an earlier age can be evaluated.

According to 2017 OFA Statistics, Spinone has a 15.6% abnormal hip rate. OFA Spinone Hip Statistic

According to 2001-2016 BVA Statistics Spinone have a 15 yr median score of 9 (both hips total score). BVA/UK Spinone Hip Statistics

There are various hip scoring schemes used globally. PennHIP has their own unique scoring system using a Distracted Index (DI). Understanding PennHIP.   The British Veterinary Association (BVA) evaluates hip xrays in the UK and also has their own scoring system. BVA/UK Hip Scheme