Understanding ACL Tears in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Care Options

Key takeaways:

• ACL tears in dogs can significantly impact mobility, with larger breeds at higher risk due to body weight and activity levels.
• Recognizing early symptoms like limping and changes in posture can enable timely interventions, improving recovery outcomes.
• Various treatment options, from physical rehabilitation to surgery, are available to support dogs’ recovery, with a personalized approach being essential.

It’s hard to see your dog slow down, especially when mobility problems hinder the activities they love. That sudden limp during a game of fetch or trouble getting up from their favorite spot could be a sign of an ACL tear, an injury that accounts for a significant percentage of orthopedic issues in dogs. Whether you have an energetic Labrador or a gentle Giant Schnauzer, any dog can experience this injury. However, larger breeds are more at risk due to their size and activity levels.

A torn ACL affects the knee joint and can make daily walks, playtime, and even simple movements like climbing stairs difficult. While watching your dog in discomfort can feel overwhelming, the good news is that today’s veterinary treatments can help. PetHealthMD provides trusted resources and vet-recommended products you can use together with your dog’s treatment plan to support their recovery. 

What is the ACL (or CCL) in dogs?

ACL stands for anterior cruciate ligament, which is used when discussing this ligament in people. In dogs, vets often call it the cranial cruciate ligament or CCL. The words are different, but they both refer to a ligament in your dog’s knee that helps keep the joint stable and working correctly. This ligament connects the bones above and below your dog’s knee (called the stifle joint in dogs). It helps keep the knee steady when your dog walks, runs, jumps, or climbs stairs.

What happens when this ligament tears?

When the CCL is torn, the bones in your dog’s knee move in ways they shouldn’t. The shin bone (called the tibia) slides forward instead of staying in place. This causes pain and makes it hard for your dog to walk or put weight on the leg.

A tear can happen suddenly, like when a dog jumps awkwardly or slips, or it can happen slowly over time as the ligament wears down. Without treatment, a torn CCL can lead to long-term problems like arthritis in the knee.

Knowing what this injury is and how it affects your dog’s body can help you understand what your vet recommends for treatment and recovery.

What causes ACL tears in dogs?

Your dog’s knees work hard every single day—whether they are running, jumping, playing, or simply moving around the house. The ACL helps keep these movements smooth and steady.

Knowing what causes ACL tears can help you take steps to protect your dog’s mobility and keep them feeling their best.

Here are some of the most common causes:

• Quick turns and sudden stops: Sharp movements during play can strain the ACL and cause it to tear.
  
• Awkward landings: Jumping down from furniture, stairs, or during a game of fetch can stress the knee joints, especially if your dog lands the wrong way.
  
• Large body size: Big dogs naturally put more pressure on their knees, making them more likely to experience ACL tears. High-risk breeds include Rottweilers, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds.
  
• Extra weight: Carrying extra body weight adds more strain to your dog’s joints, increasing the risk of injury.
  
• Weak leg muscles: When the muscles around the knee are weak, the ACL does more work than it should, making it more prone to tearing.
  
• Aging: A dog’s ligaments can weaken over time, like in people. An older dog’s ACL is more fragile and more likely to tear.

By understanding these risk factors, you can make choices that help protect your dog’s knees, such as maintaining a healthy weight and giving them safe ways to exercise. And if an injury does happen, early care and support can make a big difference in their recovery.

Recognizing the symptoms of an ACL tear

Dogs with ACL tears often show clear signs of pain and need help. Knowing these symptoms can help you catch problems early and give your dog the best chance to fully recover.

If you notice any of the signs below, be sure to consult your veterinarian. They can confirm whether an ACL tear is present and guide you on the best next steps for care.

Physical signs to watch for

• Limping or favoring a leg: Your dog may hold up one back leg or avoid putting weight on it while walking.
  
• Changes in posture: You might notice your dog sitting with one leg sticking out instead of tucked under.
  
• Swelling: The knee area may look puffy or feel warm to the touch.
  
• Clicking sounds: You may hear clicking or popping noises when your dog moves the affected leg.

Changes in behavior

• Less interest in activity:  Your dog might seem less eager for walks or playtime.
  
• Morning stiffness: Getting up after resting may be slower or more difficult than usual.
  
• Licking the knee: Many dogs will lick or pay extra attention to the painful knee area.

Don’t wait to take action if you see these signs, especially if your dog continues to favor one leg. Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment plan from your vet as soon as possible can significantly improve your dog’s comfort and recovery.

Keep in mind that dogs who injure one knee are more likely to injure the other one too, so early care and supportive treatment can help protect both joints.

Also, remember that dogs often try to hide their pain. Gentle checks of your dog’s movement and behavior during everyday activities can help you catch subtle changes early, so you can get the right care in place before the injury worsens.

Exploring ACL tear treatment options for dogs

When your dog experiences an ACL tear, choosing the right treatment path can feel overwhelming. The good news is that several proven approaches can help your dog heal. Your veterinarian will recommend the best option based on your dog’s size, age, activity level, and overall health.

Non-surgical treatments

Physical rehabilitation: A structured rehabilitation program can help many dogs regain normal mobility and comfort. During therapy sessions, healthy treats you can use together with rehabilitation exercises can encourage participation and positive reinforcement. This approach combines targeted exercises, physical therapy, and pain relief. Recovery typically takes about 3 to 4 months.

Rest-based care: Rest-based care may be effective for smaller dogs, especially those under 30 pounds. This involves 8 to 12 weeks of restricted activity, pain medication, and a gradual return to exercise. Your vet will guide you on safely managing your dog’s activity at home.

Surgical options

For larger or very active dogs, surgery is often the best option for restoring full knee stability. Common surgical approaches include:

• Traditional repairs use strong materials to stabilize the joint while it heals.
  
• Advanced procedures (such as TPLO or TTA surgery) adjust bone alignment to improve long-term joint support.

Surgical recovery usually takes 4 to 6 months. Your veterinarian will explain the best surgical option based on your dog’s needs..

Can ACL tears in dogs heal on their own?

If you’re wondering if your dog’s ACL tear will heal naturally, the answer is yes, it’s possible in some cases. Small tears can heal without surgery through gentle care and patience, especially in smaller dogs under 30 pounds or less active senior pets. Understanding your dog’s specific situation helps determine the best path to recovery.

Your dog’s natural healing potential depends on several factors, like size, age, and the severity of the tear. Larger, more active dogs or those with complete tears may need surgery for the best results. A trusted vet can examine your pet and help you choose between natural healing methods or surgical options based on what’s best for your furry friend.

Preventing ACL injuries in dogs

Once you understand how ACL injuries happen, it’s natural to wonder what you can do to help prevent them. While not every injury can be avoided, taking simple steps to support your dog’s joint health and movement can make a big difference. 

Here are some ways you can help protect your dog’s knees and keep them active for years to come:

• Maintain a healthy weight through mindful feeding and regular weigh-ins. Every extra pound strains your dog’s legs and increases the risk of knee problems.

• Strengthen your pet’s core with gentle exercises like balance training and hill walking. A strong foundation helps protect against potential knee damage.
  
• Plan exercise sessions that begin with 5-10 minutes of easy walking. This gentle warm-up prepares your dog’s muscles for active play.
  
• Select pet-friendly exercise spots with natural surfaces like grass or dirt paths instead of hard concrete or slick floors that can stress your dog’s legs.
  
• Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to spot early warning signs and keep your four-legged friend moving comfortably through life.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about ACL tears in dogs

How is an ACL tear diagnosed in dogs?

Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam, checking for knee instability through specific joint tests such as the cranial drawer test or tibial thrust test. In some cases, sedation or imaging like X-rays may be used to rule out other injuries and confirm the diagnosis.

Can supplements help prevent or manage ACL injuries?

While supplements cannot prevent an ACL tear outright, certain joint health supplements (like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids) can support overall joint function and reduce inflammation. You can use these alongside your dog’s exercise and weight management plan. Always check with your vet before starting any supplement.

Are certain activities or sports riskier for my dog’s ACLs?

Yes, high-impact sports or activities that involve a lot of jumping, sudden stops, or sharp turns—such as agility training or frisbee games—can increase ACL tear risk, especially in larger or predisposed breeds. Work with your vet or a canine rehabilitation specialist to design a safe activity plan for your dog.

Will my dog need long-term lifestyle changes after an ACL tear?

In many cases, yes. Dogs recovering from an ACL tear often benefit from ongoing weight management, joint-strengthening exercises, and lower-impact activities. This helps protect both knees and reduces the risk of future injuries or arthritis. Your vet can suggest long-term activity and diet adjustments tailored to your dog’s needs.

What should I ask my veterinarian when discussing ACL treatment options?

It’s helpful to ask your vet about:

• The severity of your dog’s tear (partial vs. complete)
• Recommended treatment options based on your dog’s size, age, and lifestyle
• Estimated recovery timeline and costs
• Pain management strategies
• Home care tips and long-term joint health recommendations — bringing a list of questions can make the conversation more straightforward and help you feel more confident about your dog’s care plan.

Taking action for your dog’s health

Partnering with your veterinarian helps create a personalized plan for your dog’s ACL care and recovery. Professional guidance ensures your dog gets the proper support at every stage, whether managing an injury or protecting long-term joint health.

Your role at home is just as important. Daily observation, weight management, and structured exercise routines all help keep your dog moving comfortably. Regular veterinary checkups and informed joint care choices can make a lasting difference.

At 1800PetMeds, we offer trusted, vet-recommended medication and supplements you can use together with your dog’s treatment plan to support healthy joints and help your pet stay active for years.