Cranial cruciate ligament disease is the most common cause of hindlimb lameness in dogs, with surgical treatment offering the best welfare outcomes for most affected animals.
CCL disease causes significant welfare harm through joint pain, instability, and the cascade of secondary osteoarthritis that follows untreated rupture. Dogs with CCL disease shift weight off the affected limb, struggle with stairs, and show reluctance to exercise. Surgery - particularly TPLO for larger dogs - dramatically improves both short-term comfort and long-term joint health compared to conservative management. The 8-12 week strict recovery period is itself a welfare cost that requires active management: appropriate pain control, safe confinement, and mental stimulation during restricted activity. Physiotherapy including hydrotherapy after surgical recovery significantly improves the speed and completeness of return to function.