Louise I apologise for saying Piper was a he and in fact she is a she I was annoyed about that nasty breeder when I was typing sorry :oops:
Edith x
Edith - honestly, don't worry, Piper is not a very feminine name so she's often called a 'he' (our fault will pick a more suitable name next time!).
Thanks for all of your replies. When I go back with her in a couple of weeks I will probably be in a better position knowledge wise to discuss the situation in more detail. Thanks for the hydratherapy suggestion Emma and Barb, again that's something I will need to look at.
Our vet advised that there are several causes for HD - genetic, diet (but mainly in larger breeds) or possibly even a knock when the dog is quite young, so I am not simply 'blaming' the breeder, despite the fact that with everything I have learned from COL, I do feel that it is irresponsible of a breeder to not check all is well with both dogs prior to breeding.
Anyway, I've calmed myself down a little now and am focusing on that one really good hip and plan to apply damage limitation measures to her bad hip.....
Oh and thanks Shirley, you're right, despite her occasional limp and poor running ability she is just the happiest little girl.
Kisses from Cocker cousins and human friends are gratefully received and will be passed on with extras to little Piper - who's totally zonked out now after a slap up chicken dinner!
Louise