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Is it normal for my dog not to walk 3 weeks after FHO surgery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pomeranian | Male | neutered | 8 years and 3 months old | 11 lbs

MY 9 year old Pomeranian had FHO surgery 3 weeks ago and is still not walking on his surgery leg. He uses the leg in the pool and I stretch his leg for him at home 30 minutes twice a day. I am worried he will never use his surgery leg again because it looks like he is already losing muscle. Am I worrying too much?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

Veterinarian

Published on April 23rd, 2017

According to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (www.acvsorg), results after FHO vary and are highly dependent upon patient size and proper postoperative physical rehabilitation. While many dogs will have varying degrees of lameness, function should improve when compared with preoperative status. After FHO, pets are encouraged to use the limb as soon as possible in a controlled manner. Aggressive physical rehabilitation and controlled exercise to increase hip range of motion are essential for an optimal outcome. It may take up to six weeks or longer after surgery for some dogs to show improvement.

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I'm sorry to hear that Charlie is recovering so slowly from his surgery. Recovery after an FHO surgery can be fairly intensive and I'm glad to hear that he is allowing you to perform his passive range of motion exercises. I know that some orthopedic surgeons become a bit more concerned if the surgical limb is not being used 10-14 days after an FHO. It is encouraging that Charlie is using his leg in the pool and if this is with a veterinary rehabilitation specialist, consider asking them about other exercises that can be performed to encourage use of the leg. If Charlie is using the pool at home without any rehab oversight, consider looking for a veterinary rehabilitation specialist or orthopedic surgeon in your area that can assess Charlie's current healing and also develop a more comprehensive rehabilitation plan for him. It's hard not to worry about our four legged friends - your concerns are completely justified! :-)

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