Should I crate my dog after TPLO surgery?

After a TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) surgery, one of the most common concerns among dog owners is whether or not they should keep their dog in a crate during the recovery period. The answer is yes—crate rest plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and successful recovery.

TPLO is a major orthopedic procedure that alters the biomechanics of the knee joint, and although the surgery stabilizes the joint, the healing process takes time. Dogs often feel significantly better within just a few days after surgery, which can lead to an increase in activity levels before the bones, ligaments, and surrounding tissues have fully healed.

This premature activity can result in complications, such as implant failure, delayed bone healing, or even re-injury. That’s where crate confinement becomes an essential part of post-operative management.

Crating your dog doesn’t mean isolating them completely or making them uncomfortable—it’s about creating a safe space where they can rest without the risk of jumping, running, or slipping on slick floors.

A properly sized crate limits their movement while still allowing them to lie down comfortably and change positions. It also gives peace of mind to pet parents who cannot supervise their dogs 24/7. During the first 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery, controlled restriction is vital.

Even when dogs are allowed out of the crate for short leash walks or potty breaks, they must remain under close control. Some veterinarians also recommend the use of an x-pen or a small recovery room if crating is not feasible, but the core principle remains the same: restrict mobility to prevent complications and promote proper healing.

Owners may feel emotionally conflicted about confining their pets, especially when the dog seems eager to move around or expresses boredom. But it's important to remember that dogs don’t understand the extent of their injury or the risks of being active too soon. What may seem like “just a little walk around the house” can lead to setbacks that compromise the entire surgical outcome.

Mental stimulation can help ease the confinement period—offering chew toys, food puzzles, or simply sitting near your dog and providing gentle interaction can go a long way in maintaining their emotional well-being while keeping their physical activity in check.

In short, crating after TPLO surgery isn’t just a precaution—it’s part of the treatment.

Following your veterinarian’s guidelines for rest, controlled activity, and gradual return to normal movement will help ensure that your dog returns to full function safely and without complications. While each dog is different and recovery plans may vary slightly, crate rest remains a widely recommended and effective strategy in the post-operative period.

References:

1. Fitzpatrick, N., & Solano, M. A. (2010). Predictive variables for complications after TPLO in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture. Veterinary Surgery, 39(5), 574–580.
   

2. Bergh, M. S., & Peirone, B. (2012). Complications of tibial plateau leveling osteotomy in dogs. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 42(6), 955–963.

About the autor

Felipe Garofallo is a veterinarian in Brazil, specialized in orthopedic and neurosurgical care for dogs and cats.

He is also the founder of Ortho for Pets – Veterinary Orthopedics and Specialties.