No two dogs are alike when it comes to knee injuries. Some dogs will display many of the knee injury symptoms listed below, while others will only have intermittent lameness. Lameness in canines can have many causes, some of which are not directly leg related, and it is important for your dog to be evaluated by a veterinarian for any cases of unexplained lameness in any limb. Examining the way in which your dog was injured, if it can be determined, will play an important role in diagnosing a possible canine cruciate ligament tear or rupture. Careful evaluation of the symptoms, along with any diagnostic testing done by your pet’s doctor, will determine whether conservative management or surgery is indicated.
Canine Cruicate (Knee) Injury Symptoms:
- Decreased range of motion.
- Hind leg extended when sitting – this is known as the sit sign.
- Crepitus – crackling noise of bones rubbing against each other.
- Pain – when stifle (knee) joint is touched.
- Unwilling or resistant to exercise.
- Restricted mobility or extension.
- Stiffness after exercise.
- Swelling of joint.
- Thick, firm feel to knee are, may be hot to touch.
- Weight shifted to one side of body when standing.
- Exhibits toe-touching while standing.
There are also a few other conditions with similar symptoms to a cruciate injury, which is why it is important to schedule an appointment to see your veterinarian if your dog is exhibiting any of the symptoms listed above.
Conditions with similar symptoms to cranial cruciate ligament tears/rupture:
- Acute arthritis – related to lyme disease or immune disorders
- Stifle (knee) joint sprain
- Meniscus (cartilage within the knee) injury
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar (knee cap) fracture or luxation
- Myelopathies – diseases of the nervous system