ACL Tears in American Bulldogs
Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears, commonly called ACL tears, are one of the most common orthopedic injuries in American Bulldogs. The CCL stabilizes the knee joint, and when it tears, the dog experiences pain, lameness, and joint instability. Without treatment, arthritis develops rapidly.
Signs of an ACL Tear
- Sudden lameness in one hind leg, often after running or jumping
- Sitting with the affected leg extended to the side
- Stiffness after rest that improves with movement
- Swelling around the knee joint
- Clicking sounds when the dog walks
TPLO Surgery
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) is the gold standard surgical treatment for ACL tears in large breeds like American Bulldogs. The surgery changes the angle of the tibia so the knee is stable without the cruciate ligament. TPLO has a high success rate and allows most dogs to return to full activity.
TPLO surgery typically costs $3,000 to $5,000 per knee. Approximately 40 to 60 percent of dogs that tear one ACL will eventually tear the other, so financial planning for bilateral surgery is wise.
Recovery Timeline
- Weeks 1-2 - Strict crate rest. Short leash walks for bathroom only.
- Weeks 3-8 - Gradually increase leash walk duration. No running, jumping, or stairs.
- Weeks 8-12 - Slowly reintroduce normal activity. Physical therapy exercises.
- Months 4-6 - Full activity usually permitted after follow-up X-rays.
Prevention
Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity dramatically increases ACL tear risk. Build hindquarter strength through controlled exercise. Avoid repetitive high-impact activities on slippery surfaces. Genetics play a role, so research the orthopedic history of breeding stock.