The Hip That Loses Its Blood Supply: Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

In this guide

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is an uncommon but important condition to know if you own a small or toy breed puppy, since it strikes during the very age when growing pains are easy to dismiss as 'just clumsiness'.

What is happening

The condition involves a spontaneous loss of blood supply to the head of the femur, the ball part of the hip joint. Without adequate blood flow, that bone tissue begins to die and collapse, leading to pain, joint deformity, and eventually arthritis in the hip.

Who it affects

It typically appears in small and toy breeds between four and twelve months of age, including breeds popular in Indian homes such as Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pugs. The exact cause is not fully understood, though genetics is thought to play a role.

Signs to watch for

• Gradual, worsening limping in one hind leg over several weeks
• Muscle wasting in the affected thigh, since the leg is used less
• Pain when the hip is extended or manipulated
• Reluctance to bear weight on the leg, sometimes carrying it entirely
• Irritability when the hip area is touched

Diagnosis and treatment

X-rays of the hip typically confirm the diagnosis, showing characteristic changes in the shape and density of the femoral head. In mild, early cases, strict rest and pain management are sometimes tried, but most affected dogs need surgery, specifically a femoral head and neck excision, where the damaged ball of the joint is removed and the body forms a flexible false joint from surrounding muscle in its place.

The outlook after surgery is generally very good, particularly in small dogs, who tend to regain comfortable, near normal function with physiotherapy and controlled exercise during recovery. Left untreated, the condition causes chronic pain and progressive lameness, so an early diagnosis genuinely changes the outcome.

Common Questions

Q: Can Legg-Calve-Perthes disease affect both hips? A: It is uncommon, but a minority of affected dogs do develop it in both hips rather than just one.

Q: Will a dog limp permanently after surgery for this condition? A: Most dogs, particularly small breeds, regain a near normal gait with physiotherapy and controlled exercise during recovery.

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