Yorkshire Terrier Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: How To Treat It?

Dealing with the Yorkshire Terrier Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is one of the conditions that affect all aspects of your dog’s life. It’s very painful, leads to limping, and decreased mobility. And, did you know that it’s one of the most common health issues that affect this breed? In this blog post, you’ll find all the important things you need to know as an owner of a Yorkie who is suffering from LCPD.

What is Yorkshire Terrier Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease?

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a degenerative hip condition that affects small dogs, especially those weighing under 20 pounds. The disease occurs when the blood supply to the femoral head (the upper part of the thigh bone that fits into the hip socket) is disrupted. This lack of blood flow causes the bone tissue in the femoral head to deteriorate and collapse over time, leading to pain, limping, and mobility issues.

In many cases, the exact cause of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is unknown. However, genetic factors are believed to play a significant role, making certain breeds, such as Yorkshire Terriers, more susceptible. Most commonly, LCPD appears in puppies between 4 to 12 months old and, if left untreated, can severely impact a dog’s quality of life. In some cases, it can also occur later in a dog’s life. There are examples where we could see a Yorkie at 16 months of age develop this condition.

What are the Symptoms of Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease in Yorkshire Terriers?

Identifying Legg-Calve-Perthes disease symptoms early can make a significant difference in your Yorkie’s treatment and recovery. Here are the primary signs to watch for:

1. Limping or Lameness in One Leg

• One of the first symptoms that owners notice is a limp, usually affecting one of the Yorkie’s back legs. Yorkies with LCPD may try to avoid putting weight on the affected leg, leading to a noticeable limp or an unusual gait.

2. Pain and Sensitivity in the Hip Area

• Yorkies with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease may exhibit pain when their hip is touched. You may notice that they yelp, pull away, or even become irritable if you handle the leg or hip area.

3. Muscle Atrophy in the Affected Leg

• Due to reduced usage, the muscles in the affected leg can weaken and shrink over time. This is known as muscle atrophy and is often a visible symptom in Yorkies with advanced LCPD.

4. Stiffness or Limited Range of Motion

• As the disease progresses, it can lead to joint stiffness, making it difficult for the Yorkie to walk, run, or play comfortably. After resting, the stiffness may be particularly noticeable.

5. Behavioral Changes

• Chronic pain can lead to changes in behavior. A Yorkie with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease may become more withdrawn, anxious, or aggressive. They may also be less eager to engage in activities that once excited them, such as playtime or going on walks.

If you observe these symptoms in your Yorkie, consult a veterinarian promptly. Early diagnosis is crucial to ensure that appropriate treatment can begin.

Diagnosing the Yorkshire Terrier Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

If you suspect Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease in your Yorkie, prompt veterinary care is essential. Veterinarians use several methods to diagnose LCPD:

1. Physical Examination: The vet will check for tenderness, reduced range of motion, and changes in leg length.
2. X-rays: Radiographs are the most common diagnostic tool, showing structural abnormalities in the hip joint. Initially, X-rays may appear normal, but as the disease progresses, damage to the femoral head becomes visible.
3. Advanced Imaging: In some cases, an MRI may be used to assess the blood flow and extent of the bone damage

What Breed is Known to Have Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease?

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease primarily affects small dog breeds. Alongside Yorkshire Terriers, other breeds commonly affected include:

• Toy Poodles
• West Highland White Terriers
• Miniature Pinschers
• Chihuahuas

This predisposition among small breeds suggests that genetic factors likely contribute to the disease, making it essential for breeders and pet owners of these breeds to stay vigilant. Although Legg-Calve-Perthes disease can technically occur in any dog, it is significantly rarer in larger breeds.

How Common is Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease in Yorkshire Terriers?

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD) is actually pretty common among Yorkshire Terriers and other small breeds. In fact, estimates suggest that around 5% to 10% of Yorkies are affected by this condition at some point. That might not sound huge, but it’s definitely enough to be on the lookout for if you’re a Yorkie owner or considering bringing one into your family.

Yorkies are naturally more prone to LCPD because it has a genetic component, which means it’s often passed down through certain breeding lines. The condition usually shows up when Yorkies are still young—typically between 5 and 12 months old. This is why it’s especially important to pay attention to any signs of discomfort or limping during their puppy stage. Early diagnosis can really make a difference, and regular vet check-ups can help spot any issues before they become serious.

Some breeders are working to reduce the odds by carefully selecting Yorkies with no family history of the disease, but it’s still something Yorkie owners should be aware of. While LCPD can be challenging, knowing the risks and being prepared to manage symptoms can go a long way in helping your Yorkie live comfortably and happily.

Is Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease Curable in Dogs?

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease in Yorkies is not entirely curable, but effective treatments can manage the condition, reduce pain, and help restore mobility. Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment options range from medications and physical therapy to surgical intervention.

While medications can help reduce symptoms and control pain, surgery is often recommended for more advanced cases as it provides long-term relief. The ultimate goal of any treatment plan is to reduce pain and improve the Yorkie’s ability to move comfortably.

What are the Possible Treatment Options for Yorkshire Terrier Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease?

The treatment plan for a Yorkie with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease will depend on the severity of their condition, their overall health, and the specific needs of the pet. Below are some of the main treatment options of the Yorkshire Terrier Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.

Non-surgical treatments:

1. Medications

• Anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can help reduce inflammation and manage pain in Yorkies with mild symptoms. Pain relievers may also be prescribed, but they are typically part of a temporary plan rather than a long-term solution.

2. Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy, including controlled exercises, swimming, and massage therapy, can help improve the dog’s mobility and muscle strength. Low-impact activities like swimming are particularly beneficial, as they build strength without putting stress on the joint.

3. Taking Oral Medications

• This non-surgical treatment includes adding chondroitin, glucosamine, Omega fatty acids, and Coenzyme Q10 to their diet. Besides supplements, you can also find Omega fatty acids in wild fish such as EPA and DHA.

4. Weight Management

• Keeping your Yorkie at an ideal weight can significantly reduce strain on their hips and other joints. Overweight dogs are more likely to experience pain and discomfort due to increased pressure on their bones, which can exacerbate LCPD symptoms.

Surgery treatment

1. Surgery (Femoral Head and Neck Ostectomy – FHO)

• Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) is a surgical procedure commonly used to treat Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. During an FHO, the surgeon removes the damaged portion of the femoral head. This eliminates bone-on-bone contact, which alleviates pain. In recovery, the body forms a “false joint,” allowing the Yorkie to move comfortably again.
• FHO surgery has a high success rate, and many dogs return to near-normal activity levels afterward.

How to Take Care of a Yorkie with Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Caring for a Yorkie with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease requires attention, patience, and an understanding of their limitations. Below are some ways to support a Yorkie diagnosed with this condition:

Limit High-Impact Activities

• Activities that involve jumping, running, or quick turns can worsen your Yorkie’s symptoms. Avoid these high-impact activities and instead focus on gentle exercises that don’t put stress on their hips.

Provide a Comfortable Resting Area

• An orthopedic dog bed can provide additional support and reduce joint stress, which is particularly beneficial for Yorkies with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Soft bedding can improve rest and help reduce inflammation. Read our blog post on how to select the right Yorkie bed in case you want to help your pet sleep well.

Encourage Gentle Exercise

• Regular, moderate exercise helps prevent muscle atrophy and stiffness. Swimming is an excellent exercise for dogs with joint issues because it doesn’t place any weight-bearing strain on the hips.

Stay Consistent with Veterinary Check-Ups

• Regular visits to the veterinarian can help monitor your Yorkie’s condition and ensure the treatment plan is effective. Consistency with medications, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments will help keep your Yorkie comfortable and active.

Use Joint Supplements

• Talk to your vet about joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help maintain joint health. These supplements are often used in dogs with orthopedic conditions, and they may help slow the progression of LCPD.

Is It Common for Yorkies to Have Hip Problems?

Yes, hip problems are relatively common in Yorkshire Terriers and other small breeds. They have fragile bones and due to this feature, it’s not recommended to play rough with them. In case you have kids, make sure they take care of your Yorkie gently. Pulling their legs, tail and throwing them is strictly forbidden. Yorkies are not toys and they should be taken care with respect.

While large breeds are generally more prone to hip dysplasia, Yorkies are particularly susceptible to conditions like Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation). As you can guess, these issues are often inherited. That’s why Yorkie breeders and owners should be aware of the potential for hip problems and proactively monitor their dogs for symptoms.

With proper care, regular veterinary monitoring, and appropriate treatment, most Yorkies can still enjoy a good quality of life despite these health challenges.