It has been reported in small dogs and cats though it is not very common. It affects male dogs 2 to 5 times as frequently as females, most likely due to the males larger size and increased stress on the joint. It generally occurs when the animal is between 4 and 8 months of age though it can show up in older dogs. There are several breeds that despite being larger breeds have decreased incidences of the disease including the Doberman Pinscher, Collie, and Siberian Husky. The symptoms are lameness in the affected limb.
Some dogs have a barely noticeable limp and others are unable to bear any weight on the leg.
The lameness tends to worsen after periods of exercise and improves after rest. When it affects the front shoulder a shortened forelimb stride may be noted due to reluctance to flex and extend the shoulder joint. Occasionally the disease will affect both limbs simultaneously and the dog may be reluctant to move. On physical exam we notice joint pain. For instance, most healthy dogs show no resistance when their shoulder joint is fully flexed and extended.