Rottweilers at greatest risk of cranial cruciate ligament rupture

A new study from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) explores the reasons for cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture in dogs in the UK, as well as the factors influencing how it is managed clinically. The research also identifies which breeds are most at risk of CCL, with this list including popular breeds such as Rottweilers, Bichon Frise and West Highland White Terriers. Cranial cruciate ligament rupture in the knee may be most commonly known for its major impact on the lives of footballers such as Alan Shearer or Roy Keane, but it is also a common and serious problem for dogs. Most cases in dogs are characterised by gradual degeneration of the cruciate ligament, often resulting in sudden onset pain and lameness. The findings from this new RVC research will help owners and vets to identify dogs at most risk of CCL rupture and it also highlights the clinical rationales used in first opinion veterinary practice to decide between surgery or not for the injury. Led by the RVC's VetCompass Programme, the study included 1,000 CCL rupture cases and a random selection of 500,000 other dogs without CCL injury. The research found that the breeds at most risk of CCL rupture, compared with crossbreeds, were Rottweiler (x 3.66 times risk), Bichon Frise (x 2.