Does My Dog Need ACL Surgery? How to Tell
August 25, 2025
Is Your Dog Limping? Here’s When ACL Surgery Might Be Necessary
Key Takeaways:
- Signs of an ACL Tear: Limping, stiffness, swelling, toe-touching stance, and difficulty standing or climbing stairs.
- Diagnosis Methods: Vets use physical exams, X-rays, and MRIs to confirm ACL injuries.
- Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Treatment: Small dogs or partial tears may heal with rest, while large dogs often need surgery.
- Types of ACL Surgery: TPLO, TTA, and lateral suture repair stabilize the knee for better mobility.
- Recovery & Risks of Delaying Surgery: Without treatment, ACL tears can lead to arthritis, muscle loss, and further joint damage.
Not all ACL injuries require surgery, but some won’t heal on their own. Ignoring an ACL tear can lead to severe pain, arthritis, and long-term mobility issues. Recognizing the signs my dog needs ACL surgery early can make all the difference in their recovery.
Key Signs My Dog Needs ACL Surgery
ACL injuries range from mild sprains to complete ruptures. Dogs with severe ACL tears may experience pain, instability, and difficulty walking, impacting their quality of life. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, ask yourself, “Do these match the signs my dog needs ACL surgery?”
✔️ Limping or avoiding weight on one leg
✔️ Sudden yelping after jumping or playing
✔️ Stiffness after resting, especially in the morning
✔️ Difficulty standing up or climbing stairs
✔️ Swelling or tenderness around the knee joint
✔️ “Toe-touching” stance (keeping weight off the injured leg)
✔️Popping sounds from the knee joint
If multiple signs my dog needs ACL surgery are present, it’s time for a veterinary evaluation.
How Vets Diagnose ACL Tears in Dogs
Veterinarians perform physical exams and imaging tests to assess ACL injuries and determine if surgery is necessary.
📍Common Diagnostic Methods:
✔️ Drawer Test & Tibial Thrust Test – Checks for knee instability.
✔️ X-rays – Identifies arthritis, swelling, or bone damage.
✔️ MRI or CT Scans – Provides a detailed view of soft tissue injuries.
Your vet will help confirm whether your pet’s symptoms match the signs my dog needs ACL surgery or if non-surgical treatment is possible.
Can a Dog Recover Without ACL Surgery?
One of the most common questions pet owners ask is, “Can my dog recover from an ACL tear without surgery?” The answer depends on several factors, including:
- ✔️ The severity of the tear – Partial tears may heal with rest, while complete ruptures usually require surgery.
- ✔️ Your dog’s size and weight – Small dogs have a higher chance of healing without surgery, whereas large or active dogs often need surgical intervention.
- ✔️ Activity level – Active dogs struggle with conservative treatments because the joint remains unstable.
🚨When Surgery is the Best Option:
If your dog is over 40 lbs, very active, or has a complete ACL rupture, surgery is often the best route to ensure a full recovery. If you’re still unsure and asking, “Are these signs my dog needs ACL surgery?”, your veterinarian can help guide you to the right treatment plan.
Types of ACL Surgery for Dogs
If your vet recommends ACL surgery, there are several options available:
✔️ TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) – Most common for large, active dogs.
✔️ TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement) – Another highly effective option for stabilizing the knee.
✔️ Lateral Suture Repair (Extracapsular Repair) – Best for small dogs and less active pets.
Each procedure has a different recovery timeline, and your vet will determine the best option based on your dog’s age, size, and activity level. If you’re wondering “Are these signs my dog needs ACL surgery?”, your vet will also discuss the pros and cons of each procedure.
Recovery Timeline After ACL Surgery
Recovery after ACL surgery takes time and patience. The typical recovery timeline looks like this:
✔️ Weeks 1-2: – Strict rest, pain management, and ice therapy.
✔️ Weeks 3-6: – Gradual increase in movement, short leash walks.
✔️ Weeks 7-12: – Physical therapy exercises to regain strength and mobility.
✔️ Months 3-6: – Full recovery, return to normal activity (with vet approval).
Following post-op guidelines carefully is essential to ensuring your dog heals correctly.
What Happens If You Delay ACL Surgery?
Waiting too long to treat an ACL tear can lead to more pain and complications, including:
🚨 Severe arthritis and permanent joint damage
🚨 Loss of muscle strength in the injured leg
🚨 Increased risk of tearing the ACL in the other knee
🚨 Ongoing pain that affects quality of life
If you’re still asking, “Are these signs my dog needs ACL surgery?”, delaying treatment may make the condition worse over time.
How to Support Your Dog Before and After ACL Surgery
While waiting for surgery—or if you’re managing a mild ACL tear—here are ways to keep your dog comfortable:
✔️ Limit activity – Prevent running, jumping, and rough play.
✔️ Use joint supplements – Glucosamine and omega-3s help reduce inflammation.
✔️ Control weight – Excess weight puts strain on injured joints.
✔️ Provide a comfortable resting space – Soft bedding helps relieve pressure.
✔️ Physical therapy – Helps strengthen muscles without overstressing the joint.
Whether your pet is in recovery or you’re managing symptoms, making lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference.
Does My Dog Need ACL Surgery? Let’s Find Out Together.
If your dog is limping, showing signs of knee pain, or struggling to move comfortably, it’s time to get expert advice. Not all ACL tears require surgery, but an early diagnosis can help you make the best decision for your pet’s long-term health.
📞 Concerned about your dog’s knee injury? Schedule a consultation at Heron Lakes Animal Hospital today.
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Because your dog deserves a pain-free, active life!