Diagnosing & Treating ACL Injuries in Dogs: What Every Dog Parent Should Know

If your dog suddenly starts limping, refusing to put weight on one of their back legs, or just isn’t their playful self—you’re right to be concerned.

At Willow Wood Animal Hospital in New Albany, Ohio, one of the most common orthopedic conditions we see is a torn ACL—known in dogs as a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury. Just like in people, this ligament plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee. When it’s damaged, it can cause real pain and make it hard for your dog to do the things they love—like chasing a ball, climbing stairs, or even just going for a walk.

If your dog is limping, don’t wait. Let’s walk through what a CCL tear means, how to spot the signs, and what your options are—because your dog deserves to move through life pain-free.

What Is the Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL)?

The CCL connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) and keeps the knee joint stable. When it tears—partially or completely—your dog loses that stability. It’s painful and can lead to long-term issues like arthritis or further injury if not addressed.

Why Do Dogs Tear Their ACL?

Some dogs injure their ligament suddenly—like during a zoomie session gone wrong. For others, the ligament weakens over time, especially in large breeds or overweight pets.

Common Risk Factors:

  • Sudden twisting movements or jumping off furniture
  • Age and breed predisposition (Labradors, Boxers, Rottweilers, and other large breeds)
  • Excess weight putting stress on the joints
  • Previous injuries or long-term joint wear

Why is My Dog Limping? – AKC

Signs Your Dog Might Have a Torn ACL

You know your dog better than anyone—if they’re acting “off,” it’s worth paying attention. A torn ACL can look like:

  • Sudden limping or favoring one back leg
  • Difficulty standing up or jumping
  • Swelling around the knee
  • A “toe-touching” walk—barely putting weight on the leg
  • Reluctance to play or go for walks

Some dogs with a partial tear may seem fine at first—but then limp after activity. If left untreated, a partial tear can progress into a full rupture.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

When a dog injures one knee, they often start to shift their weight to the other—putting that leg at risk, too. In fact, up to 60% of dogs with one CCL injury will eventually injure the other side.

Without treatment, joint instability can lead to arthritis, chronic pain, and long-term mobility issues.

If your dog is showing signs of an ACL injury, schedule an exam at Willow Wood Animal Hospital. We’re here to help.

How We Diagnose ACL Injuries in Dogs

At your visit, we’ll start with a full physical exam, watching your dog walk and feeling for joint instability or signs like the classic “drawer sign.” In some cases, sedation may be needed for a more accurate assessment.

We may also recommend:

  • X-rays, to assess arthritis or rule out bone fractures
  • Ultrasound or MRI, especially if the diagnosis is unclear or surgery is being considered

Learn more about canine CCL injuries

Treatment Options: What’s Right for Your Dog?

The best treatment depends on your dog’s size, age, activity level, and overall health.

 Conservative (Non-Surgical) Management

For small or senior dogs who aren’t very active, conservative care may be enough:

  • Strict rest and limited activity for several weeks
  • Joint supplements (glucosamine, omega-3s)
  • Weight management
  • Physical therapy to rebuild muscle and improve stability

Explore rehabilitation therapies for dogs

Surgical Treatment (Recommended for Most Active or Large Dogs)

Surgery is often the best option for long-term recovery, especially for larger or high-energy dogs.

1. TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy)

  • Alters the shape of the tibia to stabilize the knee without needing the ligament
  • Ideal for large, active breeds
  • Recovery: ~12–16 weeks with physical therapy
    Learn about TPLO surgery

2. TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement)

  • Similar to TPLO; changes the knee’s mechanics
  • Less invasive in some cases
  • Recovery: ~12–16 weeks

3. Extracapsular Repair (Lateral Suture)

  • Uses a synthetic ligament to stabilize the joint
  • Best for smaller or older dogs
  • Recovery: ~8–12 weeks

What to Expect During Recovery

Healing from an ACL injury—whether surgical or not—takes time and patience. But with your support, your dog can make a full recovery.

Recovery Timeline (Post-Surgery):

  • Weeks 1–4: Rest, pain management, short leash walks
  • Weeks 5–8: Begin gentle physical therapy, increase walks gradually
  • Weeks 9–12+: Strengthening exercises, swimming, and return to regular activity

Rehab Can Help:

  • Hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill) for low-impact muscle building
  • Cold laser therapy to reduce pain and inflammation
  • Massage and stretching for flexibility and joint comfort

See more about post-op rehab and its critical importance to healing after ACL surgery.

How to Prevent Future Injuries

  • Keep your dog at a healthy weight—even a few extra pounds add pressure on joints
  • Avoid high-impact play on slippery floors or hard surfaces
  • Provide ramps or stairs to avoid jumping
  • Use supplements to support joint health long-term
  • Stick with regular checkups so we can catch any issues early

Your Partner in Recovery: Willow Wood Animal Hospital

We know how hard it is to see your dog in pain—especially when they can’t tell you what hurts. That’s why we’re here.

From diagnosis to rehab, you don’t have to navigate this alone. We’ll guide you through every step of your dog’s healing journey, with personalized care tailored to their needs.

Think your dog may have a torn ACL? Book an appointment today. Let’s get them back on their feet—comfortably, safely, and with the love they deserve.