When a dog or cat undergoes an orthopedic procedure—such as TPLO surgery for a cruciate ligament rupture, femoral head ostectomy, or treatment for a luxating patella—the recovery process is not only about rest. In fact, too much inactivity can lead to muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and delayed healing. That’s where targeted physical therapy and low-impact activities like swimming come into play.

This kind of behavior typically indicates pain, discomfort, or a physical impediment that makes walking normally difficult. While it’s natural for dogs to occasionally favor one leg after vigorous activity or play, persistent or sudden non-weight bearing lameness deserves immediate attention.

While each case is unique, most dogs follow a general pattern of healing that unfolds in stages over the course of several weeks to months. Understanding this process can help dog owners set realistic expectations and provide the right environment for their pet to recover successfully.

Characterized by inflammation in the joints, it can lead to pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and a significant decline in quality of life. Many pet owners, upon receiving this diagnosis, wonder if arthritis in dogs can be cured or if it is something that must be managed for the rest of the pet’s life.

It is a developmental disease that occurs when the bones that make up the elbow joint—namely the radius, ulna, and humerus—fail to align properly during growth. This misalignment leads to abnormal wear and tear, causing pain, lameness, and eventually arthritis. Some of the most commonly affected breeds include Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Patellar luxation is a common orthopedic condition that affects small breed dogs more frequently than larger ones. Breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and Miniature Poodles are particularly predisposed to this issue due to their anatomical structure and genetic tendencies.

One of the first signs that something is wrong is a noticeable limp or the dog completely avoiding putting weight on the affected leg. Over time, if left untreated, the instability can lead to secondary complications such as meniscal injuries and the development of osteoarthritis, making the situation progressively worse.

This condition, similar to an ACL injury in humans, is one of the leading causes of hind limb lameness in dogs, particularly in active or large-breed animals. When the CCL ruptures, it destabilizes the knee joint, leading to pain, inflammation, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected limb. TPLO is designed to address this instability not by replacing the torn ligament, but by altering the biomechanics of the knee itself.

Hip dysplasia is one of the most common orthopedic conditions affecting dogs, particularly in large and giant breeds, although it can also occur in smaller dogs. It is a genetic disease that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally, leading to a loose fit between the head of the femur and the socket of the pelvis.