Cruciate Disease in Dogs
Cruciate disease refers to the partial or complete rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in a dog's knee (stifle) joint.
What Is Cruciate Disease in Dogs?
The CCL is similar to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in humans and plays a crucial role in stabilising the knee. When damaged, it leads to pain, instability, and arthritis over time. This is one of the most common orthopedic conditions seen in dogs and can occur suddenly due to trauma or gradually from ligament degeneration.
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer expert care to diagnose and treat cruciate disease, ensuring your dogs comfort and health.
Signs Your Dog May Have Cruciate Disease
If your dog has Cruciate Disease, you may notice:
🐾 Limping or non-weight-bearing lameness (often sudden)
🐾 Stiffness, especially after resting
🐾 Difficulty standing up, jumping, or using stairs
🐾 Swelling around the knee joint
🐾 "Toe-touching" stance when standing still
🐾 Decreased activity and reluctance to exercise
If your dog shows any of these signs, a vet check-up is recommended to allow for treatment and prevent further complications.
What Causes Cruciate Disease?
Cruciate ligament injuries can occur due to:
🐾 Ligament degeneration – Chronic weakening of the ligament over time, common in middle-aged and older dogs.
🐾 Trauma or sudden injury – A sudden twisting motion while running, jumping, or playing.
🐾 Obesity – Excess weight increases strain on the ligament, leading to faster deterioration.
🐾 Breed predisposition – Larger breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Boxers, and Newfoundlands are more prone.
🐾 Poor conformation or joint structure – Some dogs have anatomical abnormalities that predispose them to ligament injuries.
🐾 Genetics – Some dogs inherit a higher risk of developing cruciate disease.
When to See a Vet
If your dog suddenly starts limping on a hind leg, is reluctant to put weight on it, or seems in pain when moving, a vet visit is recommended. Immediate veterinary attention is especially important if:
🐾 The lameness is severe or persists for more than a few days.
🐾 Your dog cries out in pain or refuses to use the affected leg.
🐾 The knee appears swollen or deformed.
🐾 There is a history of previous cruciate ligament injury in the opposite leg (as the other knee is often at risk).
🐾 Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further damage and long-term complications such as arthritis.
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer gentle, professional treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent complications.
Professional Cruciate Disease Treatment at My Corner Vet
Treatment options for cruciate disease depend on the severity of the injury, the size of the dog, and lifestyle factors.
Conservative Management
For small dogs (<15 kg) or dogs with partial tears, rest, anti-inflammatory medications, weight management, and physiotherapy may help.
Surgical Option
Surgery is the most effective treatment, especially for large or active dogs. At my Corner Vet we offer what is called a Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO). This surgery helps to reconstruct your dogs stifle to help restablise the joint.
Rehabilitation & Recovery
Post-surgery, a structured rehab plan including controlled exercise, hydrotherapy, and physiotherapy is essential for recovery.
How to Prevent Cruciate Disease in Dogs
🐾 Maintaining a healthy weight – Excess weight increases strain on the knee joint.
🐾 Providing regular, controlled exercise – Strengthening muscles around the joint improves support and stability.
🐾 Avoiding sudden, intense activity – Warm up before high-energy play sessions.
🐾 Using joint supplements – Glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids may help support joint health.
While not all cases are preventable, you can reduce your dog's risk by:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Small dogs or those with partial tears may improve with rest, pain management, and physiotherapy. However, for most dogs, surgery offers the best chance of restoring mobility and an active, pain-free life.
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Most dogs take 8-12 weeks to regain normal mobility, but full recovery may take up to 6 months, depending on the procedure and rehabilitation plan.
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Unfortunately, up to 50% of dogs that tear one cruciate ligament will eventually tear the other within 1-2 years. Proper weight management and joint support can help reduce this risk.
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Without treatment, the knee remains unstable, leading to chronic pain, arthritis, and loss of function over time.
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Following the vet’s post-op care instructions is crucial. This includes strict rest, controlled exercise, physiotherapy, and joint supplements to support healing.
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📍 Clinic Location: 134 Broadway, Nedlands, WA
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