A cruciate ligament rupture is one of the most common orthopaedic injuries in dogs — and one that can be genuinely life-changing, both for the pet and for their owner. Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy, known as TPLO surgery, is considered the gold standard treatment for this injury in medium and large breed dogs.
We know a TPLO diagnosis can feel daunting. This guide is designed to help you understand what to expect at every stage — from diagnosis through to recovery. We've been privileged to share the story of Toby, one of our own patients who underwent TPLO surgery here at Paws & Co and has gone on to thrive.
What Is the Cruciate Ligament, and Why Does It Rupture?
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) stabilises the knee (stifle) joint in dogs. Unlike in humans, where cruciate rupture usually results from a single traumatic event, in dogs the ligament typically degenerates over time — meaning the rupture is often a gradual process rather than a single accident.
Risk factors include breed genetics (Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers are particularly predisposed), obesity, and sudden bursts of intense activity in dogs who are not regularly exercised.
What Does TPLO Surgery Involve?
Rather than simply replacing the damaged ligament, TPLO surgery changes the geometry of the knee joint so that the joint can function without the ligament. The surgeon makes a curved cut in the tibia (shin bone), rotates the tibial plateau, and fixes it in the new position with a bone plate and screws.
The result is a knee that is mechanically stable without relying on the cruciate ligament. Outcomes are excellent in experienced hands.
Recovery: What to Expect
🛌 Weeks 0–2
Strict rest. Lead-only walks for toileting, no stairs, jumping, or running. Pain management is critical — we'll provide appropriate medication for this phase.
🚶 Weeks 2–8
Controlled exercise is slowly reintroduced. Physiotherapy plays an important role in building muscle and restoring range of motion during this period.
🏃 Months 2–6
The bone takes 8–12 weeks to heal fully. Most dogs return to normal activity by four to six months, confirmed by X-ray before high-impact exercise resumes.
"A big thank you to everyone for mending my Toby and allowing me to share the day with him." — Mark Peters. Toby is now back on the beach, living his best life. Stories like his are why we do what we do.
Signs Your Dog May Have a Cruciate Injury
- Sudden lameness on a hind leg, often following exercise
- Intermittent lameness that improves with rest but returns with activity
- Sitting with the affected leg out to the side rather than tucked under
- Muscle wastage in the affected hind leg over time
- A clicking or popping sound from the knee joint
If you're concerned about lameness or a reluctance to bear weight on a hind leg, please call us. We'll assess your dog and discuss all available options, including referral to an orthopaedic specialist where appropriate.
Concerned About Your Dog's Lameness?
If your dog is lame on a hind leg, reluctant to bear weight, or has been diagnosed with a cruciate rupture, call us. We'll carry out a thorough assessment and discuss all available options with you.