Pennhip is the University of  PENNsylvania Hip Improvement Program. The Pennhip method is a better way of predicting hip joint status. It consist of a three step evaluation rather then the one xray the OFA utilizes. The standard leg extended position for xray forces the hips into a tighter position than a natural standing position. Add a standing position xray with added force to cause  the hips to displace laterally ( harmless ) - 3 radiographic views.

Some  of  the greatest benefits of the pennhip method   -  it can give good results as young as 16 weeks. vs. the standard 2 years. - objective assessments are made within a dogs breed, allowing better evaluation of breeding stock, as a heritabily index is assigned. ( this is still under construction for many breeds )  -  all tests are submitted, not just the ones the vet deems may "pass" eliminating false statistics due to preliminary evaluation which has happened with the OFA requirements ( excluding the worst hips may lead to the false impression that genetic progress is being made within the breed ). The akc has announced plans to remove all health and genetic information from the official AKC registration and have this information - including pennhip - in their newly conceived health database.  The nacr will also record this information when submitted