Fact Sheet

Toy & Miniature.

Interruption of blood supply to the head of the femur bone in the hip joint leading to death of bone cells and subsequent remodeling of the femoral head.  This causes collapse of the joint and osteoarthritis.

Painful, rear-end lameness.

Unknown, although a familial tendency is suspected.

Radiograph (X-ray), submitted to a Veterinary Orthopedic Specialist.

Early signs may show up at 6-8 months.

In mild cases, limiting activity and treating with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may relieve pain.  In more severe cases surgery to remove the femoral head and neck is performed.  Subsequent healing forms a false joint and may result in a complete recovery.

Every dog being used in a breeding program should be x-rayed prior to being bred. Only dogs that have normal hips should be considered for breeding. Dogs that produce offspring with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease should be considered carriers; great care should be taken to avoid breeding carrier to carrier.

OFA's LCP Overview: https://www.ofa.org/diseases/other-diseases/legg-calve-perthes