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Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease

What is the Cranial Cruciate Ligament?

Illustration from “Hill's Pet Nutrition, Atlas of Veterinary Clinical Anatomy”
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is one of the most important stabilizers inside the canine knee (stifle) joint, the middle joint in the back leg. 

The meniscus is a ‘cartilage-like’ structure that sits in between the femur (thigh) and tibia (shin) bones. It serves many important purposes in the joint such as shock absorption, position-sensing, and load-bearing and can be damaged when the CCL is ruptured. ​

Rupture of the CCL is one of the most common reasons for hind limb lameness, pain, and subsequent knee arthritis. 

​Since the development of this problem in dogs is much more complex than in humans, and they experience different degrees of rupture (partial or complete), the canine condition is referred to as ‘cranial cruciate ligament disease’ (CCLD). While the clinical signs (symptoms) associated with CCLD vary, the condition invariably causes rear limb dysfunction and pain. 

Symptoms of CCLD

Dogs with CCLD may exhibit any combination of the following signs (symptoms):
  • difficulty rising from a sit
  • trouble jumping into the car
  • decreased activity level
  • lameness (limping) of variable severity
  • muscle atrophy (decreased muscle mass in the affected leg)
  • decreased range of motion of the knee joint
  • a popping noise (which may indicate a meniscal tear)
  • swelling on the inside of the shin bone (fibrosis or scar tissue) 
  • pain
  • unwillingness to play
  • stiffness

Breeds Susceptible to CCL 

Cranial cruciate ligament disease can affect dogs of all sizes, breeds, and ages, but rarely cats. Certain dog breeds are known to have a higher incidence of CCLD (Rottweiler, Newfoundland, Staffordshire Terrier, Mastiff, Akita, Saint Bernard, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and Labrador Retriever) while others are less often affected (Greyhound, Dachshund, Basset Hound, and Old English Sheepdog). A genetic mode of inheritance has been shown for Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers.

Poor physical body condition and excessive body weight are risk factors for the development of CCLD. Both of these factors can be influenced by pet owners. Consistent physical conditioning with regular activity and close monitoring of food intake to maintain a lean body mass is advisable.​

At our veterinary clinic, we successfully diagnose and treat CCLD to help dogs regain their mobility and life.

To learn more about CCLD rehabilitation, click here >>