Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (LCPD) is a debilitating developmental disease that affects toy and miniature breeds of dog. Pain, lameness, and muscle atrophy of the hip joint are the only easily observable indications of the condition, and are sometimes attributed to minor trauma. LCPD is diagnosed by examining x-rays (radiographs) of affected dogs. LCPD is difficult to predict and prevent, but good or excellent quality of life can be acquired with surgery. A new technology, the canine SNP array, will be used to evaluate potential regions of the genome which may harbor the gene(s) causative for LCPD in several miniature and toy breeds.

Alison N. Starr, Ph.D.
Research Assistant Professor 
Department of Genetics and Biochemistry
Clemson University 
100 Jordan HallClemson, SC 
29634-0318
Phone: (864) 656-0191
Fax: (864) 656-0393
Email: astarr@clemson.edu