ACL surgery Melbourne veterinarian examining a dog with a knee injury

Helping dogs regain comfort and mobility with expert diagnosis, cruciate ligament surgery and personalised rehabilitation.

ACL Surgery

A torn ACL is one of the most common orthopaedic injuries seen in dogs. In veterinary medicine, this injury is more accurately known as a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture. The cranial cruciate ligament plays an important role in stabilising the knee joint, and when it becomes damaged, it can cause pain, limping and difficulty walking.

At Vets of Melbourne, we provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for ACL (CCL) injuries. Our experienced veterinary team will assess your dog’s condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment to restore comfort, stability and mobility.

What Is an ACL (CCL) Injury?

The cranial cruciate ligament helps keep your dog’s knee stable during movement. When this ligament tears or ruptures, the knee becomes unstable, making walking painful and increasing the risk of arthritis if left untreated.

ACL injuries may occur suddenly after exercise or develop gradually as the ligament weakens over time.

Early diagnosis and treatment often lead to better long-term outcomes.

Diagnosing an ACL Injury

Diagnosing a cruciate ligament injury begins with a thorough orthopaedic examination.

Depending on your dog’s condition, we may recommend:

  • A physical examination
  • Orthopaedic assessment
  • X-rays to assess the knee joint and rule out other conditions
  • Additional diagnostic imaging where appropriate

A complete assessment allows us to determine the severity of the injury and recommend the most suitable treatment plan.

ACL Surgery at Vets of Melbourne

Watching your dog struggle with a knee injury can be worrying, but early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference.

At Vets of Melbourne, we combine thorough orthopaedic assessment, modern surgical techniques and personalised rehabilitation plans to help dogs recover as safely and comfortably as possible.

Whether your dog has recently developed a limp or has been diagnosed with a cruciate ligament injury, our experienced veterinary team is here to guide you through every step of treatment and recovery.

Book an appointment with Vets of Melbourne to discuss diagnosis and treatment options for your dog’s ACL (cranial cruciate ligament) injury.

Dogs with a cruciate ligament injury often show changes in their movement or activity.

Common signs include:

  • Sudden limping on a back leg
  • Difficulty standing after resting
  • Reluctance to run, jump or climb stairs
  • Stiffness after exercise
  • Swelling around the knee
  • Holding one leg off the ground
  • Reduced activity levels
  • Pain when the affected leg is handled

If you notice these signs, we recommend arranging a veterinary examination as soon as possible.

Successful recovery requires both surgery and careful rehabilitation.

After surgery, we’ll provide a personalised recovery plan that may include:

  • Strict exercise restriction during the initial healing period
  • Pain management
  • Follow-up examinations
  • Repeat imaging if required
  • A gradual return to normal activity
  • Rehabilitation exercises to rebuild strength and mobility

Our team will monitor your dog’s progress and guide you through every stage of recovery. Learn more about what to expect after your pet’s procedure by visiting our After-Surgery Care page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes an ACL injury in dogs?

ACL injuries may occur after sudden trauma, but many develop gradually as the ligament weakens over time. Factors such as age, breed, body weight and activity level can all contribute.

Will my dog always need surgery?

Not every dog requires surgery. Treatment recommendations depend on the severity of the injury, your dog’s size and lifestyle. During your consultation, we’ll discuss the most appropriate options for your pet.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure and your dog’s individual circumstances. Many dogs require several months of rehabilitation before returning to normal activity.

Can my dog fully recover after ACL surgery?

Many dogs regain excellent mobility following surgery and appropriate rehabilitation. Following your veterinarian’s recovery plan plays an important role in achieving the best possible outcome.

Can an untreated ACL injury become worse?

Yes. Without treatment, ongoing instability within the knee can increase pain and contribute to arthritis and further joint damage over time.