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My dog is limping from a cruciate injury. Can we avoid surgery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 4 years and 6 months old | 70 lbs

What is the best game-plan to manage lameness in my lil' guy's hind left leg due to a cruciate ligament issue? Thinking (hoping) it's a strain & not a total tear as he's totally fine on it as long as he doesn't over-exert himself... Quite weary of putting him through surgery (as the emergency vet recommended after a really bad day) & everything that comes with it (rehab, etc.) so just wanted to scope out a more natural approach to his happiness while still livin' the good life - thanks!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 30th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Brooklyn. I usually discuss surgical repair when I diagnose a dog with a cruciate injury, but it is not my only approach. Conservative care has been more effective in small breed dogs though in my opinion. However, I have had some large breed dogs do well without surgery. I usually start with strict rest for a period of 4-6 weeks depending on the case. This can allow scar tissue to develop in the knee and stabilize the joint. I will also prescribe pain medication as needed as well as prescription joint supplements. If the dog is overweight at all, I will use a veterinary weight loss diet. Any additional weight will be extra stress and strain on that joint. So I want the dog to be as lean as possible. If the dog is comfortable, I will gradually return them to their normal activity level. I also warn owners, if a dog suffers a cruciate injury on one leg then they are likely to suffer the same thing on the other rear leg as it is a degenerative injury. I hope this information helps!

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    Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I imagine that Brooklyn is a very active guy. Unfortunately cruciate ligament injuries are very common in dogs, especially larger breeds. There can be different levels of damage to the ligament from traumatic damage to more commonly degeneration. If your pup has a partial tear it unfortunately will not heal itself but you can address pain/inflammation with medications and try to prevent a full rupture by limiting high impact activities. If the knee is unstable arthritis will develop over time and the way the body tries to address instability is by forming scar tissue around the joint (causing the knee to feel thick) (the goal of surgery is to re establish the stability of the joint). Addition of glucosamine/chondroitin is a good idea or considering feeding a joint diet like science diet J/D which has these in it. Fish oil can also help with inflammation. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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