Cranial cruciate ligament rupture is the most common orthopaedic injury in dogs. Understanding the welfare implications of different treatment approaches guides better decision-making for affected dogs.
Cruciate rupture causes sudden severe lameness and persistent joint pain. Dogs carrying the condition without treatment develop progressive stifle instability, meniscal tears and accelerating osteoarthritis. The welfare burden of untreated cruciate rupture in larger dogs is substantial, as the joint cannot functionally stabilise without surgical repair. Post-operatively, the rehabilitation period requires careful confinement and controlled exercise, which imposes behavioural restriction that can itself be a welfare challenge for active dogs. Quality physiotherapy and hydrotherapy reduce pain, improve muscle strength and speed functional recovery, making specialist rehabilitation a core component of the welfare management plan rather than an optional extra.