What is a cruciate injury?
Dogs have a ligament inside the knee (the cranial cruciate, equivalent to the human ACL) that stops the joint sliding around. It can rupture suddenly during activity, or wear and partially tear over time. Once injured, the knee becomes unstable and inflamed.
Signs of a cruciate problem
The classic picture is a dog that’s suddenly lame on a back leg, often after exercise or play.
- Sudden limping or holding a back leg up
- Stiffness, especially after resting
- Sitting with one leg stuck out to the side
- Swelling around the knee
- Reluctance to bear full weight on the leg
Supporting the knee at home
Cruciate injuries often need veterinary assessment and sometimes surgery, but supportive care helps comfort and recovery either way.
- Rest and restricted activity while it’s assessed and healing
- A knee brace or support to stabilise the joint where appropriate
- Weight control to reduce load on the knee
- Non-slip flooring and ramps to avoid twists and slips
- Gradual, controlled return to exercise as guided by your vet
Signs to look for
Sudden limpHolding leg upStiff after restSwollen knee
When to see your vet. See your vet for any sudden hind-leg lameness. They can examine the knee for instability, take imaging if needed, and advise on whether management or surgery is the best route for your dog.
Shop knee & joint support
Browse vet-informed products chosen to support this at home.