Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease, also known as Legg-Calvé-Perthes Syndrome, is a painful degenerative condition that primarily affects the hip joints in small breed dogs. This disease usually appears early in puppies, commonly between 3 to 13 months of age. Breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, West Highland White Terriers (Westies), and Manchester Terriers are particularly predisposed to this condition, although other small breeds can also be affected.

Understanding Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease

This disease occurs when the head of the femur bone in the hind leg receives an inadequate blood supply, leading to bone necrosis (death of bone tissue). As the femoral head deteriorates, it disintegrates causing the collapse of the hip joint. This degeneration results in pain, lameness, inflammation, and secondary osteoarthritis, which severely impacts a dog's mobility and quality of life. Despite extensive research, the exact cause remains unknown, with abnormal blood supply being the most widely accepted contributing factor.

Breeds Most Affected by Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease

Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease disproportionately affects toy, miniature, and small breed dogs, appearing often in puppies as young as three months old. Commonly affected breeds include:

• Yorkshire Terrier puppies
• West Highland White Terrier puppies
• Border Terriers
• Dachshund puppies
• Manchester Terriers

Owners considering getting any of these breeds should be aware of this condition and discuss preventive health measures with reputable breeders and their veterinary team.

Recognising Symptoms Early

Early detection of Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease is vital for successful management and improving your dog's wellbeing. Symptoms often develop gradually and may include:

• Lameness or limping, usually worsening over a few months
• Carrying or favouring one hind leg instead of placing it on the ground
• Signs of pain or discomfort in the hip area, such as whimpering or reluctance to move
• Muscle wasting, particularly in the affected thigh
• Reduced range of movement in the hip joint

If you notice these signs, it’s important to consult a vet promptly for a thorough assessment.

Diagnosing the Condition

Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and a comprehensive physical examination focusing on the affected hip and hind limb. Your vet may perform diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, to evaluate the extent of femoral head damage and hip joint changes. Early radiographs may show widening of the joint space, decreased bone density, thickening or fractures of the femoral neck. Accurate diagnosis requires specialised veterinary evaluation.

Treatment Options for Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease

Treatment varies depending on severity but generally involves surgical intervention, especially in progressive or painful cases. The most common procedure is femoral head and neck excision (FHNE), which removes the damaged bone to alleviate pain and allow the formation of a "false joint" that improves mobility.

Conservative treatments such as rest, pain relief medication, and cold therapy may be prescribed for early or mild cases but typically provide only temporary relief. Following surgery, close veterinary monitoring and a structured rehabilitation plan are crucial.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Rehabilitation

After surgery, diligent aftercare is essential for a full recovery. Rehabilitation includes:

• Regular, controlled exercise to maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility
• Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, which effectively improve joint mobility and build muscle without stressing the hips
• Weight management to prevent excess strain on healing joints
• Follow-up veterinary appointments every few weeks to assess progress and adjust care

Some vets recommend small lead weights attached near the hock to encourage the dog to put weight on the affected leg, aiding rehabilitation.

Responsible Breeding and Ethical Ownership

Breeding dogs diagnosed with Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease is strongly discouraged as the condition can be inherited. Buyers and owners should prioritise acquiring puppies from reputable breeders who health test and avoid breeding affected lines. This helps reduce incidence and protects future generations of these small breeds.

Conclusion

Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease is a painful hip condition affecting young small breed dogs, caused by loss of blood flow leading to bone death and joint collapse. Early recognition, timely veterinary diagnosis, and appropriate surgical treatment greatly improve outcomes. With careful post-operative care, including physical therapy and weight management, the majority of dogs make a full recovery and regain mobility.

If you're considering getting a small breed, such as Yorkshire Terrier puppies or Dachshund puppies, ensure you work with responsible breeders and veterinary professionals to support your future companion’s health and wellbeing.