🐾 Functional Results of ACL Surgery in Dogs: What You Need to Know

A torn ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) in dogs is a common and painful injury, leading to lameness and a reduced quality of life. Thankfully, surgical intervention can restore function and help your dog return to their active lifestyle. But what are the functional outcomes after surgery, and how long does recovery take?

Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Your Questions 🐕

What is ACL surgery for dogs? It’s a surgical procedure to repair a torn cruciate ligament, improving stability and mobility in the knee.
What are the functional outcomes post-surgery? With proper rehab, most dogs regain around 80-90% of their normal function.
How long is the recovery? The recovery period lasts 6-12 months, with improvements seen as early as 2-3 months post-surgery.
Will my dog be able to run again? Most dogs can return to moderate activity, including running, after successful surgery and rehabilitation.
Are there any long-term risks? Some dogs may develop arthritis over time, but surgery reduces the severity and progression of the condition.

🦴 What Is ACL Surgery for Dogs, and Why Is It Necessary?

ACL surgery, often referred to as TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) or TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement), is performed to repair a torn cranial cruciate ligament in the dog’s knee joint. This ligament is crucial for stabilizing the knee, and when it’s torn, dogs experience pain, lameness, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.

How the surgery works: The procedure doesn’t “repair” the ligament but instead restructures the knee to compensate for the torn ACL, allowing the dog to regain stability and function.
Why it’s necessary: Without surgery, the instability in the knee leads to chronic pain, decreased mobility, and the rapid development of arthritis. Surgery helps reduce long-term damage and improves your dog’s quality of life.

💡 Tip: If your dog is limping or showing signs of discomfort, early intervention is key. The sooner ACL surgery is performed, the better the functional outcome and the lower the risk of severe arthritis.

🐕‍🦺 What Are the Functional Outcomes of ACL Surgery in Dogs?

The goal of ACL surgery is to restore as much function as possible to the affected leg. While no surgery can return your dog to 100% pre-injury function, most dogs regain 80-90% of normal function. Here’s what you can expect:

Weight-bearing improvements: Within the first 2-3 months, most dogs start to bear weight on the operated leg, with significant improvements in mobility.
Full activity: By 6-12 months post-surgery, dogs can usually return to moderate activities like walking, running, and light play. However, intense activities such as jumping or high-impact sports should be limited.
Pain reduction: Dogs experience significant pain relief after surgery, allowing them to walk, run, and play without the constant discomfort associated with a torn ACL.
Return to normal gait: Over time, dogs regain a normal walking gait, with some slight stiffness potentially remaining in extreme cases.

💡 Pro Tip: Follow your vet’s rehabilitation plan carefully, including physical therapy, to maximize your dog’s functional recovery. The more diligently rehab is followed, the better the outcome.

📊 Functional Results of ACL Surgery in Dogs at a Glance

Here’s a table that summarizes the expected functional results post-surgery:

Functional Improvement	Timeframe	Expected Outcome	💡 Tip
Weight-bearing on operated leg	2-3 months 🐕‍🦺	Most dogs bear full weight and start light activity	Follow vet instructions closely for physical therapy.
Moderate activity (walking, running)	6 months 🏃‍♂️	Dogs return to moderate exercise with minimal discomfort	Avoid high-impact activities like jumping.
Full recovery (80-90% function)	9-12 months 🕒	Dogs regain most function with a normal gait	Long-term care and monitoring for arthritis are recommended.
Pain reduction	1-2 weeks post-surgery ⚕️	Significant pain relief, improved mobility	Pain management and anti-inflammatories help speed recovery.

🩺 What Does Recovery Look Like After ACL Surgery for Dogs?

Recovery from ACL surgery is a gradual process and requires a strict rehabilitation plan. Your vet will provide detailed instructions, but here’s a general timeline of what to expect:

The first few weeks: During the initial post-surgery period, your dog will need to rest and limit movement. Crate rest is often recommended, and your vet may prescribe pain medications and anti-inflammatories to keep your dog comfortable.
Rehabilitation and physical therapy: Physical therapy is critical to a successful recovery. In the first few months, gentle range-of-motion exercises, hydrotherapy, and controlled leash walks help strengthen the leg without overstraining it.
Gradual return to activity: After 2-3 months, your dog will be able to increase their activity level slowly. By 6 months, they should be able to engage in normal daily activities, like walking and running, with limited restrictions.

💡 Tip: Be patient and follow your vet’s guidance—rushing the recovery process can lead to complications and prolong the healing period.

🐕 Will My Dog Be Able to Run Again After ACL Surgery?

The good news is that most dogs can return to running and playing after ACL surgery, but there are some caveats to keep in mind:

Moderation is key: While your dog will likely be able to run and play, high-impact activities like jumping or engaging in strenuous sports should be limited. These activities increase the risk of injuring the repaired knee or even the other leg, as dogs that tear one ACL are more prone to tearing the other.
Gradual return to activity: Your dog won’t be running right away—rehabilitation is a slow process, and your dog will need to build up strength and stamina before returning to normal exercise levels. By 6 months, most dogs can engage in light to moderate running, but always consult your vet for specific guidance.

💡 Tip: Ensure your dog’s exercise regimen includes low-impact activities like walking and swimming, which are easier on the joints and help maintain fitness without risking further injury.

🏋️ How Do I Prevent Long-Term Issues Like Arthritis After ACL Surgery?

While ACL surgery greatly reduces the risk of further damage, arthritis is still a potential long-term concern. Here’s how to minimize its impact:

Weight management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is crucial. Excess weight puts more pressure on the joints, increasing the likelihood of arthritis. Work with your vet to create a diet and exercise plan to maintain your dog’s ideal weight.
Joint supplements: Adding joint supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect the joints and slow down the development of arthritis.
Regular vet check-ups: Regular vet visits help monitor your dog’s progress and catch any early signs of arthritis. Your vet may recommend anti-inflammatory medications or therapies like laser treatment or acupuncture if arthritis develops.

💡 Tip: Start joint supplements early in the recovery process to support long-term joint health and reduce the progression of arthritis.

📊 ACL Surgery Functional Outcomes vs. Non-Surgical Treatment

To better understand the importance of surgery, here’s a comparison of functional results between ACL surgery and non-surgical treatment options:

Functional Outcome	ACL Surgery 🏥	Non-Surgical Treatment ❌
Pain relief	Significant, long-lasting pain relief	Partial relief with ongoing discomfort
Mobility improvement	80-90% return to normal function	Limited improvement, often 50% or less
Arthritis development	Reduced risk of severe arthritis	Higher risk and faster progression of arthritis
Quality of life	High—dogs can return to running, playing	Moderate—chronic lameness may persist

🗝️ Key Takeaways for ACL Surgery in Dogs

Surgery is crucial: Without surgery, your dog’s mobility will remain limited, and arthritis will progress faster.
Recovery takes time: The rehabilitation process is long but essential for successful outcomes.
Return to function: Most dogs regain 80-90% of their normal function, with pain relief starting within the first week.
Ongoing care is key: Long-term monitoring, weight management, and joint support are essential to prevent arthritis.

While ACL surgery requires time and patience, the results can be life-changing for your dog, allowing them to enjoy a pain-free, active lifestyle once again. 🐾

Comment 1: “How long after ACL surgery should I start seeing improvement in my dog’s mobility?”

After ACL surgery, the recovery process can be gradual, but you should start seeing noticeable improvements within the first few weeks, particularly in terms of weight-bearing on the affected leg.

First 2 weeks: In the initial stages, your dog will be mostly resting, with minimal activity allowed. You may notice small signs of improvement, like a slight decrease in pain and your dog attempting to put light pressure on the operated leg. During this phase, the focus is on pain management and preventing unnecessary movement.
Weeks 2-6: By the end of the first month, most dogs begin to show significant improvements in their ability to bear weight on the leg. Although your dog may still limp slightly, they should be increasingly comfortable during short, controlled walks. Many owners report their dogs showing signs of increased comfort during this period as they gradually regain strength.
2-3 months: By this time, your dog should be able to engage in light activity, such as longer leash walks. The limp should significantly diminish, and your dog may begin to show more enthusiasm for movement, though it’s essential to maintain activity limitations until your vet gives the all-clear for full recovery.

💡 Tip: Keep your dog on a strict rehabilitation plan during these early weeks. It’s tempting to let them play once they show improvement, but controlled activity is crucial to avoid setbacks.

Comment 2: “Is it normal for my dog to limp after ACL surgery, even after a few months?”

Yes, it’s normal for dogs to limp after ACL surgery, especially during the first few months of recovery. However, the degree and duration of the limp can vary depending on factors like the severity of the original injury, the dog’s age, and their rehabilitation progress.

First few weeks: A limp is expected and completely normal during this period. The body is still healing, and the leg is not yet strong enough to support full weight without assistance.
3 months post-surgery: By this point, the limp should be minimal. If it’s still prominent, this could indicate that your dog needs additional physical therapy or adjustments to their rehab program. It’s important to ensure that they’re not compensating too much with their other legs, which could lead to additional stress on the opposite knee.
Beyond 6 months: If your dog is still limping significantly after 6 months, it’s worth consulting your vet. In some cases, scar tissue formation or muscle imbalances can cause a prolonged limp, and targeted therapies or massage techniques might be needed to restore proper function.

💡 Tip: Consistency in rehab exercises is crucial. Even if the limp persists, gentle walking and low-impact exercises, like swimming, can help build strength in the operated leg and reduce compensatory limping.

Comment 3: “What can I do at home to help speed up my dog’s recovery from ACL surgery?”

Your dog’s recovery depends largely on what you do at home to support their healing process. Here are some key strategies you can use to speed up recovery while ensuring it’s safe and controlled:

Controlled physical therapy: Begin with range-of-motion exercises as recommended by your vet to prevent joint stiffness. Gradually introduce short leash walks (5-10 minutes) after the first couple of weeks to rebuild strength, increasing the time slowly as your dog becomes more comfortable. Hydrotherapy, if accessible, is an excellent option, as the water provides support while reducing strain on the joints.
Weight management: Keeping your dog at an ideal weight is critical to reducing stress on the recovering leg. Excess weight can slow recovery and increase the risk of further injury. Adjust your dog’s diet if necessary to ensure they aren’t gaining weight during the recovery period, especially when their activity is restricted.
Joint supplements: Consider incorporating joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin into your dog’s daily routine. These supplements support cartilage health and help reduce inflammation, potentially accelerating healing and improving mobility. Omega-3 fatty acids are also beneficial for managing inflammation post-surgery.
Create a safe environment: Keep your dog in a confined, comfortable space to prevent them from overexerting themselves during recovery. This could be a small room or a crate where they can rest safely without the temptation to jump on furniture or run around the house.

💡 Tip: Be diligent with prescribed exercises and always gradually increase activity. The recovery process may seem slow, but steady progress ensures long-term success without complications.

Comment 4: “Can my dog develop arthritis even after ACL surgery? If so, how can I prevent it?”

Yes, it’s possible for your dog to develop arthritis after ACL surgery, particularly because the joint has undergone significant stress both from the injury and the surgical intervention. However, the good news is that there are several ways to slow down or reduce the progression of arthritis after the surgery.

Why arthritis occurs: The trauma to the knee from the original injury, combined with the inevitable wear on the joint over time, makes arthritis more likely, even after surgery. Without surgery, the progression is typically faster and more severe, but the surgery helps mitigate some of that damage.
Preventive strategies:
- Weight control: Keeping your dog’s weight in check is the single most effective way to reduce the strain on their joints. Obesity accelerates the wear and tear on joints, leading to quicker arthritis development.
- Regular, moderate exercise: Avoid high-impact activities but keep your dog moving with low-impact exercises like swimming or walking. Regular activity keeps the joints lubricated and strengthens the muscles around the knee, supporting joint stability.
- Supplements and diet: Along with a balanced diet, including joint supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
- Veterinary follow-ups: Regular vet visits allow early detection of arthritis symptoms. Your vet may recommend anti-inflammatory medications or even physical therapy to address stiffness and maintain mobility as your dog ages.

💡 Tip: Keep arthritis at bay by combining preventive measures with ongoing joint support, even after your dog’s ACL surgery recovery. Regular check-ups with your vet help spot early signs of arthritis and guide proactive treatment.

Comment 5: “Will my dog’s other knee be at risk for an ACL tear after surgery on one knee?”

Yes, dogs that tear the ACL in one knee are often at higher risk of tearing the other knee’s ACL. Studies show that up to 50% of dogs who suffer an ACL tear in one knee will experience a similar injury in the other knee within 1-2 years.

Why this happens: When one knee is injured, dogs naturally put more weight on their unaffected leg, which leads to additional strain and wear on the healthy knee. This compensation, combined with factors like obesity and anatomical predisposition, increases the likelihood of a second ACL tear.
Preventing further injury:
- Rehabilitation exercises: Strengthening the muscles around both knees through controlled exercises can help support the joints and distribute weight more evenly. Focus on balance and core stability exercises to ensure your dog doesn’t rely too heavily on the uninjured knee.
- Weight management: As mentioned earlier, keeping your dog at a healthy weight is crucial in reducing stress on both knees, preventing further injury.
- Moderate activity: Even after recovery, continue low-impact exercises like walking or swimming to keep both legs strong without putting unnecessary pressure on the joints.

💡 Tip: Watch for any signs of limping, stiffness, or reluctance to use the other leg, and consult your vet if you notice these symptoms. Early intervention may prevent a second tear or allow for less invasive treatment.

Comment 6: “How do I know if my dog’s ACL surgery has been successful?”

Success after ACL surgery is measured by a combination of pain reduction, improved mobility, and your dog’s ability to return to normal activities. Here’s how to assess whether the surgery has been successful:

Pain relief: One of the first signs of success is reduced pain. Within the first few weeks post-surgery, your dog should be more comfortable and show less pain-related behaviors, such as limping, whining, or licking the affected leg.
Mobility improvements: By 3-6 months post-surgery, your dog should be able to walk, run, and perform most daily activities with ease. A normal gait, improved range of motion, and the ability to bear weight on the operated leg are key indicators of recovery success.
Activity level: Successful ACL surgery allows dogs to return to a moderate level of physical activity, including walking, light running, and playing. However, it’s essential to manage expectations—while most dogs regain 80-90% of normal function, high-impact activities like jumping should be limited to prevent reinjury.

💡 Tip: If your dog is still showing signs of pain or lameness several months after surgery, consult your vet for follow-up exams or additional therapy. Sometimes scar tissue formation or a lack of rehab compliance can lead to delayed recovery.

Maintaining an open line of communication with your vet and following post-surgery guidelines are critical to ensuring your dog enjoys a full and happy recovery.

Comment 7: “My dog is still not putting weight on the leg after ACL surgery. Is this normal?”

It’s not uncommon for some dogs to hesitate before fully bearing weight on the operated leg after ACL surgery, especially in the early stages of recovery. However, the timeline for weight-bearing can vary, and several factors might influence this.

Early stages (1-2 weeks): Right after surgery, it’s normal for your dog to be reluctant to put weight on the leg due to post-operative pain and discomfort. During this period, your dog may only place the foot down lightly or not at all. Pain management with prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications can help ease this discomfort.
Weeks 3-6: By this point, you should start seeing more consistent weight-bearing on the affected leg. Physical therapy during this period is critical in helping your dog regain strength and confidence in the leg. If your dog is still not using the leg, it might indicate the need for more targeted rehabilitation exercises or that they are overcompensating with the other leg.
Longer-term concerns: If your dog still refuses to put weight on the leg beyond 6-8 weeks, it’s essential to consult your vet. Possible reasons include scar tissue formation, a post-surgical complication, or even psychological hesitation stemming from discomfort or fear of re-injury. A detailed examination, potentially including X-rays, can help determine if there’s any underlying problem preventing proper weight-bearing.

💡 Tip: Gradually reintroduce weight-bearing activities like slow, controlled leash walks to encourage the use of the operated leg. Swimming is another excellent option, as it allows your dog to exercise without putting too much pressure on the joints.

Comment 8: “Can my dog return to competitive sports like agility after ACL surgery, or is that too risky?”

While ACL surgery can restore much of your dog’s mobility and strength, returning to high-intensity activities like agility is more complex and carries some risks.

Rehabilitation and conditioning: After surgery, most dogs regain about 80-90% of their normal function, but agility places significant stress on the joints. If your dog competes in agility or similar sports, proper rehabilitation and strength conditioning are critical. Your vet may refer you to a veterinary sports medicine specialist or a rehabilitation therapist to design a specific post-surgery training program that strengthens the leg without overloading it.
Risk of re-injury: The concern with returning to competitive agility is the potential for re-injury or a tear in the other knee. Agility involves fast directional changes, jumps, and high-impact landings, all of which can put stress on the knee joint, even after surgical correction. Although the reconstructed knee will be stable, there’s still a risk, especially if muscle imbalances develop or if the opposite knee has been weakened from overcompensation.
Modified activity: Many dogs can return to modified versions of their previous activities. You may want to focus on low-impact training that still challenges your dog but reduces the likelihood of injury. Hiking, long walks, or even controlled agility training with lower jumps and fewer sharp turns are safer alternatives.

💡 Tip: If agility is a priority, talk with your vet about a structured return-to-sport plan. Be mindful of any changes in gait or limping after exercise, and always warm up your dog before any strenuous activity to reduce injury risk.

Comment 9: “I’ve heard that small dogs recover better than large dogs after ACL surgery. Is that true?”

It’s generally true that small dogs tend to recover more quickly and easily after ACL surgery compared to larger breeds, but there are a few reasons why:

Body weight and strain on the joint: Smaller dogs have less weight to bear on their joints, meaning there is less stress on the repaired knee during recovery. This typically leads to faster healing and a lower likelihood of complications like reinjury or overcompensation by the other leg.
Activity level: Many small dogs are naturally less active or engage in lower-impact activities compared to larger breeds. This contributes to a smoother recovery since they may not place as much force or strain on the knee during routine movements.
Rehabilitation differences: Larger dogs often require more intensive rehabilitation because they carry more weight, and their recovery demands greater muscle strength to support the repaired knee. Small dogs can often resume their normal activity levels with less structured physical therapy, though rehab is still beneficial for any size dog.

That said, each case is unique, and individual factors like the dog’s age, overall health, and adherence to the rehab plan play a major role in recovery. Some larger dogs recover exceptionally well, while some smaller dogs may face challenges, depending on their lifestyle and health.

💡 Tip: Regardless of size, following your vet’s rehabilitation guidelines and maintaining a healthy weight for your dog are the best ways to ensure a successful recovery.

Comment 10: “How do I know when my dog is ready for more intense physical activity after ACL surgery?”

Knowing when to safely introduce more intense physical activity after ACL surgery can be tricky, but your dog will show signs when they’re ready for more advanced rehabilitation. Here’s what to look for:

Consistent weight-bearing: One of the first signs your dog is ready for more physical activity is their ability to consistently bear weight on the leg without a significant limp. If your dog is walking normally during leash walks and shows little hesitation to put weight on the leg, they’re likely ready for more structured activity.
Increased muscle strength: Dogs who are ready for higher activity levels will display improved muscle tone in the operated leg. You can feel for muscle symmetry between the two hind legs to gauge whether the muscles in the affected leg are developing properly. If the leg still feels weak or underdeveloped, it may be too soon to increase activity intensity.
Endurance and stamina: As your dog progresses through their rehabilitation, they should demonstrate an increased ability to maintain endurance during walks or exercise without tiring quickly or showing signs of pain. If your dog is completing daily walks or light play without signs of discomfort, it indicates they can tolerate more advanced exercises.
Vet’s approval: Always consult your vet before ramping up your dog’s activity levels. Your vet may recommend X-rays or exams to ensure the knee is fully healed and ready for more demanding exercise. In some cases, a physical therapist can guide you through more advanced exercises to build strength gradually.

💡 Tip: Introduce new activities slowly, starting with low-impact exercises like swimming or walking on soft surfaces. Gradually increase intensity while closely monitoring for any signs of discomfort, such as limping, swelling, or fatigue.

Comment 11: “How long will my dog need pain medication after ACL surgery?”

The duration of pain medication after ACL surgery will vary depending on your dog’s individual recovery and pain levels, but here’s a general guideline:

First 2-3 weeks: During this period, pain management is crucial. Most dogs will be on a regimen of anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as Carprofen, combined with painkillers like Tramadol or Gabapentin. This combination helps reduce inflammation and manage acute post-surgical pain. These medications are usually prescribed for 2-3 weeks, although some dogs may need them longer.
4-6 weeks: By this point, most dogs start to show significant improvement in terms of pain and discomfort. Depending on your dog’s progress, your vet may start to taper off the pain medications, especially if the dog is bearing weight on the leg and seems comfortable.
Chronic pain management: In some cases, dogs may require ongoing low-dose pain medication if they have underlying issues like arthritis in the knee joint. Joint supplements, like glucosamine and chondroitin, or medications like Meloxicam, can help manage long-term joint pain after surgery.

💡 Tip: Follow your vet’s instructions when tapering off pain medications to avoid any abrupt changes that could cause discomfort. If you notice signs of pain during the tapering process, like limping or reluctance to move, talk to your vet about adjusting the pain management plan.

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Published on: October 2, 2024October 2, 2024Author: Bestie PawsLike: 2Comment: 0