Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease in Dogs

Category: Bone & Joint
Inheritance: Multifactorial
Breeds documented: 6
Published sources: 4

Overview

Inside the knee, the cranial cruciate ligament keeps the thigh and shin bones from sliding too far against each other. When this ligament weakens and tears, the joint becomes unstable, painful and prone to arthritis. The damage usually develops gradually as the ligament deteriorates, rather than starting with a single accident. Tears can be partial or complete, and the nearby meniscus, a pad that cushions the joint, may also be injured.

Signs to watch for

Limping on a back leg, sometimes after resting.
Struggling to get up or sit down comfortably.
Less interest in play or other activity.
Difficulty jumping into a car.
A clicking sound from the affected knee.

Dogs of any age can be affected, and signs may develop gradually.

When to get help Book a vet visit promptly if your dog starts limping on a back leg.

Diagnosis and tests

The vet checks whether the shin bone moves abnormally against the thigh bone during a hands-on knee examination. Sedation may help relax the muscles when the findings are subtle. X-rays can show joint swelling and arthritis, and help plan surgery if it is needed.

Breeds with documented risk

6 breeds

By breed size

1 Medium
3 Large
2 Giant

RottweilerLarge · Working Group
BoxerLarge · Working Group
BroholmerGiant · Foundation Stock Service
Fila BrasileiroGiant · FCI Group 2 (Pinschers and Schnauzers, Molossoids and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs)
Polish Tatra SheepdogLarge · FCI Group 1 (Sheepdogs and Cattledogs)
Swedish LapphundMedium · Foundation Stock Service

Inheritance

Multifactorial
Several genes and the environment together set the risk. Diet, growth rate, weight and exercise can all play a part. There is no single DNA test. Screening the parents (for example hip or elbow scores) and choosing from lines with good results lowers the risk, but does not remove it.
As stated by OMIA

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.