Dog ACL Surgery Recovery Week by Week: A Complete TPLO Recovery Timeline

A torn ligament in your dog's knee (commonly called a dog ACL tear) can severely impact your pet's mobility. This common injury typically causes lameness in one hind leg, making it difficult for your furry friend to walk normally.

Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) is a frequently recommended surgical procedure for dog ACL injuries. TPLO helps stabilize the affected knee and reduces pain during movement.

The dog ACL surgery recovery week-by-week process requires patience and careful management. Most dogs improve gradually over several weeks, with each phase offering new challenges and milestones.

Following a structured TPLO recovery timeline helps you provide the best care for your pet. This guide outlines what to expect during each phase of healing.

Key Takeaways

• Dog ACL (CCL) surgery recovery takes 12–16 weeks, but some dogs may need up to 6 months for full function. \
• Factors affecting the recovery timeline include your dog's age, weight, pre-existing joint conditions, and adherence to rehabilitation protocoounger, healthier dogs often recover more quickly, while senior dogs or those with arthritis may require extended recovery periods.
• Some dogs begin weight-bearing within 24 hours, while others take several weeks. Avoid comparing your dog's progress to others, as breed, size, fitnevel, and surgical technique all impact healing speed.
• The TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) procedure is the gold standard for medium-to-large active dogs.
• Alternative surgical methods include TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement) and lateral suture techniques, each with specific advantages depending on yog's size, activity level, and individual anatomy. Your veterinarian will recommend the best option based on a comprehensive evaluation.
• Recovery milestones include: strict rest (Weeks 1–2), guided exercises (Weeks 3–10), and return to normal activity (Weeks 11–16).
• Using recovery aids like Lick Sleeve and performing regular rehab exercises greatly improve outcomes.
• Weight management becomes critical during recovery as excess pounds place additional stress on healing joints. Many dogs require a 10-20% caloeduction during the restricted activity phase to maintain optimal body condition.
• Protect your dog’s incision, monitor their gait, and work closely with your veterinarian to tailor their recovery to their unique needs.

Key Recovery Goals After Dog ACL Surgery

Post-operative care following TPLO surgery focuses on several important objectives. Each aspect plays a vital role in your dog's healing process.

Managing Pain and Comfort

Your veterinarian will prescribe appropriate pain medications to keep your dog comfortable during the initial healing phase. These medications reduce discomfort and help manage inflammation that could impede recovery.

Pain management typically involves a multi-modal approach. Each medication works differently, so combining them often provides better pain relief than using just one type. Never adjust dosages without consulting your veterinarian, as both under-medicating and over-medicating can be dangerous.

Expert Tip: Create a medication schedule chart and stick it to your refrigerator. Set phone alarms for each dose to ensure consistent pain management. Missing even one dose can cause pain to "break through," making it harder to manage and potentially setting back recovery progress.

To reduce movement, place water and food bowls within easy reach. Soft, supportive bedding helps prevent pressure sores during extended rest periods.

Expert Tip: Elevate your dog's food and water bowls slightly to reduce the need for them to bend down, which can be uncomfortable during early recovery. A simple inverted bowl underneath the regular bowl creates the perfect height for most dogs.

Temperature regulation is crucial during recovery. Dogs on pain medications may have difficulty regulating their body temperature, so provide both warm blankets and cooler areas where they can move if they become too warm. Heated beds can provide comfort, but should be used on low settings to prevent overheating.

Many owners find that setting up this recovery space in a low-traffic area of the home benefits their dog. The quieter environment reduces stress and prevents well-meaning family members from inadvertently encouraging too much movement too soon.

Supporting the Healing Process

The surgical site requires protection throughout the TPLO recovery timeline. Keep the incision clean and properly covered to prevent infection. A protective sleeve, like those from Lick Sleeve, can protect the area from licking. This barrier also protects against dirt and other contaminants that might delay healing.

Expert Tip: Take daily photos of the incision site for the first two weeks. This creates a visual record that helps you notice subtle changes and provides valuable documentation if you need to consult with your veterinarian about healing progress.

Proper wound care involves gentle cleaning with veterinarian-approved solutions if needed, but most incisions should be kept dry and undisturbed. Check the incision twice daily for signs of healing or complications. Normal healing shows gradual reduction in redness and swelling, with edges that appear to be knitting together.

Signs that require immediate veterinary attention include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, discharge (especially if it's colored or has an odor), separation of incision edges, or any protrusion of internal tissues. Early intervention for complications can prevent minor issues from developing into serious problems that require additional surgery.

Proper incision care also involves regular but gentle inspection to monitor healing progress. Watch for signs of healing, like initial redness that gradually subsides, rather than increases. The edges of the incision should appear to be coming together nicely within the first week.

Expert Tip: Keep a recovery journal documenting daily observations, including incision appearance, pain levels, appetite, bowel movements, and exercise tolerance. This information is invaluable during veterinary check-ups and helps track progress objectively.

Environmental factors significantly impact healing. Maintain a clean, dust-free recovery area and change bedding regularly. Avoid allowing your dog outside during wet weather without protection, as moisture and mud can introduce bacteria to the surgical site. If outdoor access is necessary, consider waterproof protective coverings.

Nutrition plays a vital role in the healing process. High-quality protein supports tissue repair, while anti-inflammatory nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, can aid in recovery. Discuss with your veterinarian whether dietary supplements might benefit your dog's specific healing needs.

Limiting Physical Activity

Restricting your dog's movement is the most challenging yet crucial aspect of dog ACL surgery recovery. Too much activity too soon can compromise the surgical repair and potentially necessitate a second procedure. Prevent jumping, running, and furniture climbing by using baby gates, crates, or keeping your dog on a short leash when not confined to their recovery area.

Expert Tip: Create "activity zones" throughout your home using baby gates. This allows your dog some freedom of movement within safe boundaries while preventing access to stairs, furniture, or areas where they might be tempted to run or play.

The restriction of physical activity serves multiple purposes beyond protecting the surgical site. It prevents muscle strain in surrounding areas that might compensate for the healing leg, reduces the risk of falling or slipping that could damage the repair, and allows the body's energy to focus on healing rather than physical exertion.

Bathroom breaks should be brief and controlled during the first few weeks. Keep these walks strictly functional: they're for elimination only, not exercise or recreation. Use a short leash and maintain close control. Walk slowly and deliberately, allowing your dog to set a comfortable pace. Avoid any sudden movements or distractions.

Expert Tip: Establish a consistent bathroom routine with the same route and timing. This predictability reduces anxiety and helps your dog understand the limited nature of these walks. Consider using verbal cues to signal the purpose of the walk.

Avoid bathing or swimming until your veterinarian confirms that the incision is fully healed to keep it dry. When hygiene becomes necessary, use waterless shampoos or wipes specifically designed for pets. Focus cleaning efforts on areas away from the surgical site, and always protect the incision with waterproof covering if any moisture is involved.

For dogs accustomed to high levels of activity, this restriction can be challenging. Working breeds, sporting dogs, and young animals may experience significant frustration. Recognize that behavioral changes like restlessness, whining, or destructive behavior are normal responses to forced inactivity. Patience and consistent management are essential during this difficult period.

Consider crate training if your dog isn't already crate-trained, as this provides the safest environment for recovery and rehabilitation. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can play or jump inside.

Providing Mental Stimulation

Mental enrichment prevents boredom during physical restrictions. While your dog's physical activities are severely limited, their mind still needs engagement to prevent boredom and potential depression. Bored dogs may become destructive or attempt activities that could harm their surgical repair.

Expert Tip: Rotate toys and activities every few days to maintain novelty. What seems interesting on day one may become boring by day five, so having a variety of options helps maintain engagement throughout the long recovery period.

Interactive feeding methods transform mealtime into mental exercise. Use puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, or hide small portions of food around their recovery area to encourage natural foraging behaviors. This slows down eating, which is beneficial for digestion, while providing mental stimulation that can tire a dog as much as physical exercise.

Try frozen treats like ice cubes with chicken broth. Puzzle toys or Kongs with appropriate fillings keep your dog mentally engaged while physically resting. Fill these toys with healthy options like plain yogurt, pureed pumpkin, or wet dog food, then freeze them for longer-lasting entertainment.

Expert Tip: Create "brain games" using items you already have at home. Hide treats in empty toilet paper rolls (with ends crimped closed), wrap food in towels for sniffing games, or teach new commands that only require mental effort, not physical movement.

Introduce new toys one at a time rather than all at once to maintain novelty. Simple training exercises that don't require physical exertion, such as practicing "stay" commands or teaching new verbal cues, can also provide meaningful mental stimulation while strengthening your bond during recovery.

Training sessions should be short (5-10 minutes) but frequent throughout the day. Focus on commands that can be performed while lying down or standing still, such as "touch" (nose to hand), "look" (eye contact), or "drop it." These activities provide structure and mental challenge without physical strain.

Expert Tip: Use this recovery time to address behavioral issues that don't require physical training. Work on impulse control, attention to commands, or reducing anxiety through positive reinforcement training methods.

Consider audiovisual stimulation for dogs who enjoy it. Pet-specific videos or calming music can serve as a form of environmental enrichment. Some dogs enjoy watching bird or squirrel videos designed for pets, while others prefer classical music or the sounds of nature.

Social interaction remains important even when physical activity is limited. Spend quality time simply being present with your dog, offering gentle petting and verbal reassurance. This emotional support is crucial for maintaining your dog's mental well-being during the challenging recovery period.

Dog ACL Surgery Recovery Week by Week: How Long Will It Take?

The TPLO recovery timeline varies significantly between individual dogs. Most pets require 8-12 weeks for basic recovery following ACL surgery. Many veterinarians consider full healing to take around 16 weeks, and dogs with chronic injuries or complications might need up to 6 months before returning to normal activities.

Your dog's specific recovery depends on several key factors:

• Surgical technique used (TPLO, lateral suture/extracapsular repair, or TTA)
• Your dog's weight and overall body condition score
• Duration of the injury before surgical intervention
• Pre-existing arthritis or joint inflammation
• Age and breed of your dog
• Your consistency with post-operative care instructions
• Quality of physical rehabilitation

Each week of recovery builds on previous progress. The dog ACL surgery recovery week-by-week approach allows you to track improvements systematically.

TPLO Recovery Timeline: Weeks 1-2

The first two weeks after dog ACL surgery are critical for establishing proper care routines. This initial phase sets the foundation for successful healing.

Home Preparation for Dog ACL Recovery

Prepare your home before bringing your dog back from surgery. Remove obstacles that could cause tripping or falling during limited mobility.

Place clean, comfortable bedding in an easily accessible ground-floor location. Position water and food bowls nearby to minimize your dog's need to move.

Consider your sleeping arrangements to allow for overnight monitoring. Many owners place a mattress on the floor temporarily or use a baby monitor. Additionally, baby gates should be installed to restrict access to stairs during recovery. Non-slip rugs on hardwood or tile floors can also prevent dangerous slipping.

Keep a sling or folded towel ready to support your dog's hind end when needed. Proper support prevents strain on the surgical repair during movement.

Limited Exercise During Early Recovery

Exercise should be minimal during weeks 1-2 of dog ACL surgery recovery. Short, slow 5-minute leash walks are permitted 3-5 times daily.

Expert Tip: Time your walks carefully to avoid peak activity periods in your neighborhood. Early morning or late evening walks reduce the likelihood of encountering other dogs, cyclists, or children who might excite your dog and cause any sudden movements.

The purpose of these early walks extends beyond simple elimination needs. Gentle movement promotes circulation, which aids healing by delivering nutrients to the surgical site and removing waste products. However, the emphasis must remain on "gentle". Any activity that causes panting, rapid breathing, or obvious fatigue is too intense for this stage.

Use a sling to support the hind legs when walking outside. This reduces weight on the operated leg and prevents falls. Proper sling technique involves supporting the dog's hindquarters while allowing the front legs to move naturally. Practice using the sling indoors before attempting outdoor walks to ensure both you and your dog are comfortable with the equipment. 

Expert Tip: Create a "walking kit" that includes a short leash, a supportive sling, waste bags, and a towel for cleaning paws. Having everything ready reduces the time spent preparing for walks and minimizes your dog's anticipation and potential excitement.

Avoid hills, stairs, or uneven terrain that might stress the surgical site. Choose flat, stable surfaces with good traction. Concrete sidewalks, well-maintained paths, or even indoor hallways provide ideal walking conditions during early recovery. Grass is fine if it's level and dry, but avoid wet or muddy conditions that might cause slipping.

Prevent any interaction with other pets during this period. Even gentle play could lead to sudden movements that jeopardize the surgical repair. If you have multiple pets, consider temporary separation or very supervised, calm interactions only.

Pain Management 

Your veterinarian will prescribe a comprehensive pain management regimen. This typically includes anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling at the surgical site.

Additional pain-relieving medications might be prescribed for comfort. Some dogs receive a pain patch for consistent relief during the initial recovery days.

Regardless of the specific medications prescribed, adhering strictly to the recommended schedule is crucial, even if your dog appears comfortable, as pain can increase suddenly when medication levels drop.

Passive Range of Motion (PROM) Exercises

Your vet may recommend gentle PROM exercises starting in week 2. These maintain joint mobility without stressing the repair. Position your dog lying on its side with the affected leg uppermost. Support the leg firmly but gently throughout the exercise.

Slowly flex and extend the joint only to the point of mild resistance. Never force movement or continue if your dog shows discomfort. Support the knee carefully to prevent any twisting motion. Rotation could damage the healing tissues.

Always follow your veterinarian's specific protocol for your dog's condition.

Incision Monitoring During Early Recovery

Carefully monitor the surgical site throughout weeks 1-2. Check the incision twice daily for signs of problems. Keep the area clean and protected from licking or scratching. A recovery sleeve provides protection while being more comfortable than an E-collar.

Watch for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, or discharge. Normal bruising should gradually fade rather than intensify.

Monitor for excessive fluid buildup (seroma) around the incision. Some swelling is normal, but it should not increase after the first few days.

If you notice concerning symptoms, contact your vet immediately. Prompt intervention prevents minor complications from becoming serious problems. Most sutures are removed 10 to 14 days after surgery. Your vet will schedule this follow-up appointment before you leave with your dog.

Dog ACL Surgery Recovery Week by Week: Weeks 3-4

As your dog enters weeks 3-4 of the TPLO recovery timeline, you can gradually introduce more movement. This phase focuses on building strength while protecting the healing joint.

Massage and Muscle Stimulation

Gentle massage becomes an important therapy during this stage. Start with light touches and gradually increase pressure as your dog becomes comfortable. Focus on the muscles surrounding the affected leg, but avoid the incision site. Massage sessions should last 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times daily.

Expert Tip: Begin each massage session by simply placing your hands on your dog and allowing them to relax. This helps establish trust and ensures your dog is comfortable before any techniques are used.

Massage stimulates blood flow to muscles that have been relatively inactive. This increased circulation helps deliver nutrients for healing and removes waste products.

Effective massage requires understanding which muscle groups to target during ACL recovery. The primary areas of focus include the quadriceps (front thigh muscles), hamstrings (back thigh muscles), gluteal muscles (hip area), and calf muscles. These muscle groups work together to support the knee joint and maintain proper leg function.

During recovery, muscles on the affected leg often atrophy (shrink) from disuse, while muscles on the opposite leg may become tight from compensatory overuse. The muscles surrounding the surgical site may also develop tension from altered movement patterns and protective guarding.

Expert Tip: Learn to identify muscle tension by feel. Healthy, relaxed muscles should feel soft and pliable, while tense or tight muscles feel firm, ropy, or have distinct knots. Areas of muscle atrophy will feel noticeably smaller compared to the unaffected leg.

Increased Walking Duration in Weeks 3-4

Walking duration can gradually increase during this phase of dog ACL surgery recovery. Add 5 minutes weekly if your dog tolerates longer walks without limping afterward.

Continue using flat surfaces with good traction for all walks. Avoid hills, uneven terrain, and slippery surfaces that could cause instability.

Monitor your dog's gait closely for signs of improved weight-bearing on the affected leg. Many dogs begin placing the operated leg down more confidently during this period. Consider walking in gentle figure-eight patterns to encourage balanced weight distribution. These curved paths require muscle engagement that is different from straight-line walking.

Introduction of Low-Impact Strengthening Exercises

Begin incorporating gentle strengthening activities after veterinary approval. Start with simple sit-to-stand exercises, five repetitions twice daily.

Gradually increase the repetitions as your dog gains strength, adding five more repetitions per week. If needed, support your dog with a sling during these movements.

Try three-legged standing exercises to strengthen the operated leg. With your dog standing, gently lift one healthy leg for 10-15 seconds before switching. Only progress to more challenging exercises if your dog shows no pain or discomfort. Monitor for increased limping after activity, which indicates overexertion.

Hydrotherapy Considerations During Recovery

Hydrotherapy can be beneficial if your dog's incision has fully healed and your vet approves. Underwater movement provides resistance while minimizing weight-bearing stress.

Expert Tip: Research certified canine rehabilitation facilities in your area before surgery, so you're prepared when hydrotherapy becomes appropriate. Booking these services often requires advance scheduling, and having contacts ready saves valuable time during recovery.

The science behind hydrotherapy makes it an excellent rehabilitation tool for ACL recovery. Water provides natural resistance that strengthens muscles without the impact stress of land-based exercise. The hydrostatic pressure of water also helps reduce swelling and supports circulation, while the buoyancy effect can reduce weight-bearing stress on the healing joint.

Consult your veterinarian before starting any water therapy, as timing is crucial. The incision must be completely healed with no remaining scabs or open areas. Most dogs aren't cleared for water therapy until at least 3-4 weeks post-surgery, and some may need to wait longer depending on their healing progress.

When cleared by your dog’s veterinarian, consider professional underwater treadmill therapy. These specialized facilities provide controlled environments where water depth, temperature, and treadmill speed can be precisely adjusted to meet your dog's specific needs. 

This offers controlled resistance for muscle building, and these sessions are typically performed twice weekly under expert supervision. 

Expert Tip: If professional hydrotherapy isn't available in your area, discuss alternative water exercises with your vet. Some dogs may benefit from controlled swimming in clean, private pools, but this should only be attempted under the guidance of a professional and never in open water, where currents or uneven surfaces could pose a risk.

Hydrotherapy sessions typically begin with a warm-up period, during which your dog acclimates to the water and equipment. The actual exercise portion involves walking on the underwater treadmill at various speeds and depths of water. Sessions conclude with a cool-down period and thorough drying to prevent chilling.

Expert Tip: Ask the hydrotherapy facility about their safety protocols and staff certification. Qualified canine rehabilitation therapists should be involved in designing and supervising your dog's program, and emergency procedures should be established to ensure the safety of both your dog and the therapist.

TPLO Recovery Timeline: Week 5

Week 5 of dog ACL surgery recovery shifts focus to proprioception and balance. These skills help your dog regain awareness of body position after weeks of altered movement.

Balance Exercises

After several weeks of altered movement patterns, dogs often lose some of their natural sense of body awareness and coordination. This deficit can lead to awkward movements that place unnecessary stress on the healing joint or compensatory strain on other body parts.

Specific balance exercises help rebuild these neural pathways for better coordination.

Work on activities that help your dog regain stability gradually. Once basic standing balance improves, introduce slightly unstable surfaces under expert guidance.

Something as simple as a folded towel or foam pad creates enough instability to challenge your dog's balance systems safely. Always supervise these activities closely and provide support if needed, focusing on quality rather than duration. 

Hillwalking Introduction During Recovery

Week 5 of the TPLO recovery timeline often includes beginning gentle hill walking. This exercise effectively strengthens the muscles in the hind leg that support the knee.

Start with very minimal inclines that barely qualify as hills. Even slight elevation changes provide beneficial muscle engagement without excessive strain. Monitor your dog's gait closely during the hillwalking session and afterward, watching for signs that might indicate the activity is too challenging at this stage.

Walking uphill engages the gluteal muscles, hamstrings, and calf muscles more intensively, helping to rebuild the posterior muscle chain that supports knee stability. Conversely, controlled downhill walking (when appropriate) activates the quadriceps muscles and improves eccentric muscle control, which is crucial for shock absorption during normal activities. 

However, downhill walking should be introduced even more cautiously than uphill work, as the increased impact forces and need for muscular control to prevent "falling forward" can stress the healing joint.

Expert Tip: Use a smartphone app or simple inclinometer to measure slope angles, ensuring you're progressing gradually from 2-3 degrees in week 5 to no more than 10-15 degrees by week 8, and only with veterinary approval.

As your dog builds strength and demonstrates comfort with the initial hillwalking sessions, you can gradually increase duration by approximately 5 minutes weekly as tolerated. This progressive approach acknowledges that not all dogs recover at the same pace. Factors like age, weight, fitness level before surgery, and individual healing rates influence how quickly your pet can progress through rehabilitation.

Dog ACL Surgery Recovery Week by Week: Week 6

The six-week mark represents a significant milestone in your dog's TPLO recovery timeline. 

By this point, the bone healing process has made substantial progress, though complete fusion typically requires additional time. This checkpoint typically involves a formal evaluation by your veterinary team to assess healing and determine the next steps in rehabilitation.

Veterinary Examination at Week 6

Scheduling your dog's checkup as advised provides professional feedback about your dog’s recovery progress. This assessment helps determine if healing is proceeding as expected or if adjustments to the recovery plan are needed. 

In many cases, your veterinarian will recommend follow-up radiographs (X-rays) around the six-week mark to visualize the healing bone directly. These images allow for precise assessment of how well the osteotomy site is fusing and confirm that all surgical implants remain properly positioned. 

While the external incision heals relatively quickly, the bone healing process requires significantly more time. It can only be evaluated accurately through imaging studies that show the progression of bone callus formation at the surgical site.

Curb Walking Exercise Introduction

If your veterinarian approves, week 6 often includes beginning curb walking exercises. This controlled activity promotes targeted muscle strengthening and joint flexion.

The appropriate curb height depends entirely on your dog's size and ability. Small dogs might use a single stair step, while larger breeds need a standard street curb.

Begin with very brief curb walking sessions of just 2-3 minutes initially. This conservative starting point lets you carefully monitor your dog's response to this new challenge without risking overexertion.

Always prioritize quality of movement over quantity—a few repetitions performed with excellent form provide far greater therapeutic benefit than numerous repetitions with poor mechanics that could potentially stress the healing joint.

TPLO Recovery Timeline: Weeks 7-10

Weeks 7-10 of dog ACL surgery recovery represent an important strengthening phase in the rehabilitation process. By this point, most dogs have developed sufficient healing and baseline strength to engage in more challenging exercises designed to build functional muscle support around the knee joint.

Figure 8 Exercise 

The figure 8 exercise stands out as a particularly effective rehabilitation activity that engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously while improving coordination. This movement pattern activates stabilizing muscles around the knee that might not be fully challenged during straight-line walking, helping develop the support system needed for joint health after surgery.

To set up this exercise effectively, arrange two markers (cones, chairs, or even plant pots) at equal distances in your yard or a quiet home area. 

The space between markers should allow your dog to make comfortable turns without straining. For small dogs, this might be just a few feet apart, while larger breeds need more space to navigate the pattern smoothly without tight turns that could stress the healing joint.

Guide your dog through a slow, controlled figure-8 pattern around these obstacles, maintaining consistent communication throughout the exercise. Begin with wide, sweeping turns that place minimal rotational stress on the knee joint, gradually tightening the pattern as your dog's strength and confidence improve throughout the weeks.

This activity should be performed 2-3 times weekly for 3-5 minutes per session during the initial introduction. The quality of each repetition matters far more than the quantity or duration, so stop the session while your dog is still moving well rather than continuing until fatigue affects their form.

Weave Cones During Recovery Weeks 7-10

Building on the coordination development from figure-8 patterns, the weave cones exercise further enhances proprioception, agility, and body awareness during weeks 7-10 of dog ACL recovery. 

The deliberate movements required to weave between obstacles develop fine motor control that supports joint stability during everyday movements. Set up multiple cones or markers in a straight line with enough space for your dog to navigate between them. Start with wider spacing and gradually move markers closer together.

Guide your dog to weave between the cones using gentle leash guidance. Focus on slow, deliberate movements rather than speed.

Weight Shifting for Muscle Development

Weight-shifting exercises help develop stabilizing muscles around the knee joint. These controlled movements encourage proper weight distribution during standing and walking.

Gently rock your dog's hips toward the operated leg, encouraging weight bearing. Hold briefly, then allow the dog to return to the neutral position between repetitions.

Perform 10-15 gentle shifts per session, 1-2 times daily. This exercise strengthens the operated leg and improves overall balance during the later stages of recovery.

Stair Work in the TPLO Recovery Timeline

If approved by your veterinarian, controlled stair work may begin during weeks 7-10. This challenging exercise builds significant strength in major muscle groups.

Use a short leash to maintain close control when guiding your dog up and down stairs. Begin with just 2-3 steps and gradually increase as strength improves. Move extremely slowly to ensure your dog uses its hind legs properly for support. Watch for proper foot placement and weight distribution on each step.

Limit stair sessions to 1-2 minutes initially, focusing on proper form. Stop immediately if your dog shows signs of fatigue or increased limping.

Weight Management During Recovery

Maintaining an appropriate weight becomes increasingly important as recovery progresses. Excess pounds place additional stress on the healing joint structure.

Discuss appropriate caloric intake with your veterinarian based on your dog's ideal weight and activity level. Many dogs require reduced calories during recovery due to decreased activity.

Schedule regular weigh-ins to track progress objectively. Weight changes of even 1-2 pounds can significantly impact joint stress in smaller breeds.

Adjust food portions as activity levels change throughout the recovery process. Most dogs can gradually return to normal feeding as exercise increases.

Dog ACL Surgery Recovery Week by Week: Weeks 11-16

The final phase of the TPLO recovery timeline involves gradually returning to more normal activity levels. Weeks 11-16 represent the transition toward regular routines while continuing to protect the healing joint.

Continued Exercise Progression in Late Recovery

Walking duration and intensity can increase more substantially during weeks 11-16. Many dogs can handle 20-30 minute walks by this stage if they've progressed well through earlier phases.

Gradually introduce more varied terrain, including gentle slopes and different surfaces. These environmental challenges help rebuild proprioception and stability. Begin incorporating more normal movement patterns, including slow jogging if your veterinarian approves. Start with just 1-2 minutes of trotting within a regular walk.

Continue therapeutic exercises as recommended by your rehabilitation specialist. Many dogs benefit from maintenance exercises even after recovery appears complete.

Long-Term Activity Restrictions

Certain restrictions remain in effect for at least 6 months post-surgery. Complete healing and remodeling of bone and soft tissue continue long after outward signs of recovery.

Avoid off-leash park visits and dog park play throughout this period. Uncontrolled interactions with other dogs create a high risk for sudden movements and potential re-injury.

Prevent rough play sessions with other household pets. Even brief wrestling or chasing games can place excessive strain on the healing joint.

Limit high-impact activities like jumping on/off furniture or into vehicles. Provide ramps or steps for necessary elevation changes to minimize joint stress.

Consult your veterinarian before returning to any intensive exercise program. Activities like agility, flyball, or extended hiking require specific clearance based on individual recovery progress.

TPLO Recovery Timeline Table (2025)

Diet & Nutrition for ACL Recovery

1. Caloric Needs

• Dogs will likely need 10–20% fewer calories during crate rest.
• Adjust food portions to prevent weight gain during periods of low activity.

2. Protein for Healing

• Opt for high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish.
• Senior dogs may benefit from increased protein to counteract muscle atrophy.

3. Joint-Supportive Ingredients

• Glucosamine and chondroitin help rebuild cartilage.
• Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, help reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin C and E support tissue healing.

4. Hydration & Digestive Support

• Encourage water intake to support medication detoxification.
• Consid
• er adding bone broth for hydration and joint nutrients.
• Use pumpkin or probiotics to help prevent constipation caused by pain medications.

5. Weight Monitoring

• Weekly weigh-ins are recommended.
• Use body condition scoring (BCS) to ensure your dog remains lean and healthy.
• Consult your vet about a prescription recovery diet if your dog gains weight.

Expert Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Managing Multi-Pet Households During Recovery

Expert Tip: Create separate feeding and resting areas to prevent competition or rough play that could jeopardize recovery. Use baby gates to maintain visual contact while ensuring physical separation when needed.

If you have multiple dogs, the recovering pet's restricted activity can create tension in the household. Other pets may not understand why their companion can't play and might become frustrated or anxious. Maintain normal routines for healthy pets while protecting the recovering dog from unwanted interactions.

Recognizing Subtle Signs of Overexertion

Expert Tip: Learn to recognize early signs of overexertion, which include increased panting after minimal activity, reluctance to continue walking, or increased limping several hours after exercise. These signs indicate the need to reduce activity levels immediately.

Creating Positive Associations with Recovery Equipment

Expert Tip: Introduce recovery equipment, such as slings, crates, or protective sleeves, gradually with positive reinforcement. Allow your dog to investigate new items while offering treats and praise, creating positive associations that make compliance easier throughout the recovery process.

Seasonal Recovery Considerations

Expert Tip: Adjust your recovery plan based on the season. Summer recovery requires attention to heat management and hydration, while winter recovery might involve protecting the surgical site from cold and ensuring adequate traction on icy surfaces.

Building a Support Network

Expert Tip: Connect with other pet owners who have experienced ACL surgery recovery. Online forums and local pet groups can provide emotional support and practical advice from people who understand the challenges of this lengthy recovery process.

Long-term Joint Health Strategies

Expert Tip: Use the recovery period to establish long-term, healthy habits for your joints. This includes maintaining optimal weight, incorporating regular low-impact exercise, and considering joint supplements that support ongoing cartilage health.

Emergency Preparedness During Recovery

Expert Tip: Keep your veterinarian's emergency contact information readily accessible, and be familiar with the location of the nearest 24-hour animal hospital. Have a plan in place for transporting your dog safely in the event of complications outside of normal business hours.

Returning to Normal Activities Gradually

Expert Tip: When your dog is cleared for increased activity, resist the urge to return to pre-surgery exercise levels immediately. Plan a gradual return to normal activities over several weeks, monitoring closely for any signs of discomfort or regression.

The key to successful ACL surgery recovery lies in patience, consistency, and attention to detail. Every dog heals at their own pace, and comparing your pet's progress to others can lead to frustration. Focus on following your veterinarian's specific instructions and celebrating small improvements along the way.

Walk Your Way to a Healthy Recovery

Following this comprehensive dog ACL surgery recovery timeline will help you provide the best care for your pet after TPLO surgery. With patience and consistent attention to rehabilitation, you can support your dog's healing process and help them regain mobility and comfort.

For more information about protecting your dog during recovery, explore the full range of protective products at Lick Sleeve today.

Frequently Asked Questions