Helping Your Dog Recover After ACL Surgery: What You Need to Know

After undergoing an ACL surgery, your dog will need a structured rehabilitation plan to regain strength, mobility, and confidence. The rehab after dog ACL surgery plays a crucial role in preventing re-injury, reducing pain, and ensuring long-term success.

Many pet owners wonder, “How long will it take for my dog to recover?” or “What can I do to help them heal?” Understanding the recovery process and following proper post-op care guidelines will give your dog the best chance at a full and active life.

What to Expect in the First Few Weeks After Surgery

📍 The first 6 to 12 weeks after surgery are the most critical for healing. Your dog’s activity level must be carefully controlled to prevent complications.

✔️ First 1-2 Weeks: Rest, pain management, and minimal movement.
✔️ Weeks 3-6: Gradual reintroduction of controlled exercise.
✔️ Weeks 7-12: Strength-building exercises, physical therapy, and mobility training.
✔️ 3-6 Months: Full recovery for most dogs, with increased endurance and stability.

Your veterinarian will provide a customized rehab plan based on the type of surgery your dog had, their size, age, and overall health.

Post-Surgery Care at Home: The First 2 Weeks

The rehab after dog ACL surgery starts immediately when your pet returns home. During the first two weeks, your dog will need:

✔️ Strict crate rest or confined space – Helps prevent accidental injury.
✔️ Pain management – Prescribed medications ease discomfort and swelling.
✔️ Ice therapy – Applying ice packs (wrapped in a towel) reduces inflammation.
✔️ Short, controlled leash walks – Only for bathroom breaks.
✔️ E-collar (cone of shame) – Prevents licking or chewing the incision.

🚨 What to Watch For:

• Redness or swelling around the incision site
• Excessive licking or biting at the wound
• Limping that worsens instead of improving
• Loss of appetite or unusual behavior

If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet immediately.

Weeks 3-6: Gradual Rehabilitation & Light Exercise

As your dog starts to feel better, they may want to move more—but controlled activity is key to a safe recovery.

💡 Safe Activities in Weeks 3-6:

✔️ Leash walking for 5-10 minutes (twice daily)
✔️ Passive range-of-motion exercises (gently moving the leg to improve flexibility)
✔️ Cold laser therapy (if recommended by your vet)
✔️ Water therapy (hydrotherapy) to strengthen muscles without impact

🚨 Avoid High-Risk Movements:

❌ Running, jumping, or rough play
❌ Climbing stairs or slippery floors
❌ Playing with other dogs

The rehab after dog ACL surgery focuses on strengthening muscles while protecting the joint.

Weeks 7-12: Strength Training & Increased Activity

During this phase, your dog’s leg muscles begin rebuilding, and they regain confidence in using the repaired leg.

📍 Rehabilitation Exercises for Weeks 7-12:

✔️ Longer leash walks (10-20 minutes, twice daily)
✔️ Sit-to-stand exercises (encourages weight-bearing)
✔️ Balance training on soft surfaces
✔️ Underwater treadmill therapy (low-impact strength training)

🐶 Some dogs may still limp slightly—this is normal as they rebuild strength. However, if your pet refuses to use the leg or seems in pain, consult your veterinarian.

3-6 Months: The Final Phase of Recovery

By month three, most dogs show significant improvement, but full recovery can take up to six months.

✔️ Off-leash play (with vet approval)
✔️ Light jogging or swimming
✔️ Gradual return to normal activity

Even after full recovery, maintaining joint health is crucial to prevent future injuries.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery Process

Helping your dog recover properly takes patience and commitment. Here are essential tips for successful rehab after dog ACL surgery:

✔️ Create a safe, non-slip environment – Use carpets or mats to prevent falls.
✔️ Feed a joint-friendly diet – Omega-3s, glucosamine, and chondroitin support healing.
✔️ Use an orthopedic dog bed – Reduces pressure on healing joints.
✔️Keep weight in check – Extra pounds strain recovering joints.
✔️ Follow all vet instructions – Don’t rush the recovery process.

🚨 Skipping rehab or letting your dog move too soon increases the risk of re-injury!

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Recovery

Many pet owners unknowingly delay recovery or cause setbacks by making these mistakes:

❌ Too much activity too soon – Dogs may feel better but aren’t fully healed.
❌ Not using a leash at all times – Even a short run can lead to re-injury.
❌ Skipping follow-up vet visits – X-rays confirm healing progress.
❌ Allowing weight gain – Extra weight strains the joint.

Patience is key during the rehab after dog ACL surgery. Taking it slow ensures a full and pain-free recovery.