Cranial cruciate ligament rupture is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, causing significant pain and requiring careful welfare-conscious management.
Cruciate ligament disease causes acute pain at the time of injury and chronic pain from secondary osteoarthritis if not managed appropriately. Dogs with untreated rupture develop progressive joint degeneration that significantly impairs mobility and quality of life. Surgical stabilization, where appropriate, provides the best long-term welfare outcome by restoring joint mechanics and reducing arthritic change. Post-operative rehabilitation — including hydrotherapy and physiotherapy — speeds recovery and improves outcomes. Dogs that cannot have surgery for medical or financial reasons should receive optimal pain management and restricted exercise. Weight management is both a preventive and therapeutic measure. Early recognition of subtle lameness allows intervention before complete rupture and secondary damage.