Dog Knees: Key Insights and Care Tips for Your Pet

Do Dogs Have Two Elbows or Four Knees?

A dog has two knees and two elbows, just as humans do! Plus, they have two kneecaps and two wrists. But since canines walk on four legs (whereas we walk on two), their bones and joints function differently. The knee joint plays a critical role in how our pets stay fit and mobile, so dog knees need extra care to keep them as strong and healthy as possible. This article will help you understand their anatomy, common problems dogs face with knee joints, and some key ways to care for your pet at home.

What Is the Proper Name for a Dog’s Knees?

Often called the stifle, the knee of a dog is a fascinating joint! Keeping dog knees in excellent shape can make such a difference in their everyday ability to run, play, and enjoy life. So, as pet parents, we want to keep the dog knee joint fit to prevent problems as our beloved pets age.

Medical Anatomy to Know

In medical terms, the anatomy of canine legs is much more complicated than in humans, particularly the knees on the back legs. The stifle joins the femur (the thighbone) to the tibia, fibula, and patella (its kneecap). Like most joints, the stifle is a complex structure comprising:

• Bones
• Ligaments
• Tendons
• Cartilage

Isn’t a dog’s knee joint intricate and amazing? Everything works together to enable smooth movement. It’s designed to handle everything from a gentle stroll to a full-speed sprint!

Video and Picture of Dog Knee

Seeing a clear image of a dog’s knee can help you understand and appreciate their joint structure and how it works. This can make it easier to spot signs of strain or injury early. The following video shows an introduction to the basic anatomy of a dog’s knee, including the bones and ligaments. You’ll see an emphasis on the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL)—also known as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in humans.

Also, this detailed dog anatomy diagram showing the ACL is incredibly helpful for understanding why injuries such as ACL tears are so common (particularly in active breeds).

Signs of Knee Problems in Dogs

Unfortunately, some dogs suffer medical problems with their knees, from wear and tear to injuries. If your pup has any of the following symptoms, it might suggest that they are experiencing knee problems:

• Instability in the hind legs
• Abnormal sitting position
• Refusal to bear weight on one of the hind legs
• Limping or lameness
• Difficulty standing up from a sitting or lying position
• A sudden decrease in activity level
• Persistent licking
• Knee swelling or thickening

What to Do

The most responsible approach is always to have a vet look at your dog if they have any concerning symptoms. In the next section, I’ll discuss potential knee injuries that dogs commonly experience.

Common Injuries to a Dog’s Knees

Dogs often suffer from orthopedic injuries related to the musculoskeletal system because they frequently enjoy running and jumping. Knee injuries like luxated patellas and torn cranial cruciate ligaments (CCL) are common.

Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Sprain

Did you know this sprain is the most common orthopedic injury in dogs? The cranial cruciate ligament stabilizes the leg bones, similar to the human anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ligament can rupture or tear if it becomes chronically degenerated. Pain and instability in the knee joint soon follow.

If a vet has diagnosed this condition, you might wonder what to expect. Essentially, if an animal tears its cranial cruciate ligament:

• The bones on a leg will slide and give way.
• The injury will make walking on that leg difficult for the dog.
• A vet must determine the treatment according to the size and activity level of the pet.

While some dogs under 15 pounds may recover naturally, surgery is usually necessary. The sooner, the better to reduce the risk of permanent joint damage and ease the animal’s pain. Several surgical options are accessible, including TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy). The TPLO is a procedure that alters the angle of the tibia to stabilize the knee joint.

Knee surgery for dogs can feel daunting, but please know it’s often the best option to restore their mobility and quality of life (especially after a serious injury).

Patellar Luxation

The term “patellar luxation” is a congenital disability that causes a dog’s kneecap to slide out of place. It happens when an abnormal force applies to the patella (kneecap). Toy, small, and bow-leg breeds will most likely have luxated patellas.

For example, imagine a small dog like a Yorkshire Terrier playing fetch. As she sprints eagerly after the ball, she makes a sharp turn and suddenly yelps. The abrupt change in direction has caused her kneecap to slide out of place, causing the condition known as patellar luxation.

Dogs with this condition usually don’t show pain symptoms. So, despite any discomfort she may encounter, she continues to chase the ball, occasionally hopping on three legs.

When she stops, you notice her extending her leg to the side, then quickly snapping it back in a kicking motion. This movement is her way of trying to realign her kneecap. Although she seems in good spirits, the irregular motion plus her inability to fully bear weight on her leg suggest that her patella has luxated.

What’s the Best Way to Treat a Dog with a Luxating Patella?

If your pup experiences a mild knee injury, a vet can easily manipulate the patella back into place. The animal will need surgery in more severe cases or where the luxation is recurrent. A surgeon will realign the kneecap and prevent future dislocations.

Caution: We mustn’t walk a dog with a luxating patella if they are in pain or the condition is severe, as this could worsen the injury. Please consult your vet for appropriate exercise recommendations.

What Are the Best Ways to Support a Dog with Knee Problems?

Some orthopedic injuries are impossible to prevent. But a few things you can do may help lessen the risk of developing a luxated patella or tearing a cranial cruciate ligament.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Please keep your pet at an ideal weight (your vet can help you formulate a balanced diet plan). Excess weight only stresses the knees and increases the chances of injury. Two simple things you can do are:

• Establish a consistent exercise routine.
• Monitor their diet and portions.

Provide Nutritional Supplements

It’s helpful to know that vets often recommend dietary supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fish oil. These products can help support canine joint health and reduce inflammation.

Encourage Water Activities

Dogs love swimming, an excellent low-impact physical activity that may help knee mobility. Playing in the water can strengthen your pet’s muscles and ligaments and improve flexibility. This activity is also an excellent way to bond with your dog and have fun together!

Prevent Falls and Jumps

Protect your pup from climbing or falling down stairs with a sturdy pet gate. It is also best to keep them from jumping on or off furniture, beds, or cars. These actions can cause sudden twists or shocks, damaging them further.

Knee Dog Brace

A knee brace is a great way to support healing after a dog experiences injury or undergoes surgery. These devices can give your pup a better chance at a speedy recovery. This knee brace on Amazon is expertly designed to support dog ACL injuries with a soft, durable, and elastic sleeve. It’s easy to use, portable, and helps relieve knee pain while improving muscle mobility and motor function recovery.

Other Care Options

You may consider alternative therapies like massage or acupuncture to improve blood circulation and joint health. These methods can significantly help prevent knee injuries and improve a dog’s quality of life.

Arthritis in Dog Knees

Although arthritis can affect any joint, a dog’s knees, hips, elbows, lower back, and wrists are the most frequently afflicted. When the cartilage lining the joint bones has worn away, there is friction between the bones. This problem triggers pain and reduced mobility in the joints concerned.

The Importance of Weight Management

If your pet is overweight, this strains the animal’s knees and other joints. As a result, you might see more severe arthritis and increased joint damage. For this reason, losing weight should be a priority; it’s a manageable problem that should lessen further joint damage.

Joint Supplements Can Help

The American Kennel Club states that joint supplements can help with long-term, safe management of joint problems and arthritis. They can lower inflammation and discomfort, enhance mobility, and prevent further deterioration of the joints. Some common ingredients found in human and dog supplements are:

• Glucosamine
• Chondroitin
• Green-lipped mussel (GLM)

Have you ever noticed your pup slowing down or having difficulty getting up? These could be signs of arthritis.

How Can I Ease My Dog’s Knee Pain?

Veterinary experts suggest that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help dog owners significantly reduce joint pain and inflammation in their pets.

According to PetMD, prescription medications like carprofen, firocoxib, and meloxicam are safer than over-the-counter products for treating pain and swelling. However, please speak with your vet about the most appropriate action before offering medication.

Important!

If you notice swelling around your dog’s knee, please have a vet examine it, as this could indicate a severe injury or infection.

How to Strengthen Dog Knees

Strengthening the muscles around the dog’s knees and hind legs can be an effective treatment strategy. Doing so helps to keep joints as healthy as possible. This point is crucial for otherwise healthy dogs with weak limbs and those recovering from an injury or surgery.

TENS

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) works wonders to ease some walking-related pain. This pain relief technique uses a mild electrical current. Once your dog feels less pain, it can exercise the muscles more efficiently. You can learn more about the uses and benefits of therapeutic modalities at Rehab Vet.

Walking on a Treadmill

A treadmill is one of the best investments you can make to provide regular exercise if your four-legged friend can’t go outside. By safely supervising your pet while walking on a treadmill, you can help strengthen their joints without risking further injury.

Uphill Climbs

A more challenging exercise is walking up hills. The slope makes the knees and hind legs work harder, strengthening them further. You may need to start with fewer inclines and gradually increase the difficulty as their strength improves.

Final Thoughts on Dog Knees

Strong dog knees mean happy, healthy dogs—so regular exercise and care are key to keeping them in great shape! When it comes to dog knee surgery, like an ACL repair, please always follow your vet’s advice. Any procedure they recommend can dramatically help your pup to enjoy their favorite activities again. If you feel concerned about the wellness of your dog’s joints, the simple pain management and strengthening tips described in this article should help.

Have questions? Chat with your vet and follow their recommendations. You can also submit a question to veterinarian Mark dos Anjos, DVM, right here on Your Pets at Home.

Sources and Further Reading

• Dog Leg Anatomy in Human Terms – Orthodog – Understanding dog leg anatomy gives you a better idea of how their muscles and joints work together to keep them moving and playing.
• Exercise for Dogs: How to Strengthen a Dog’s Hind Limbs
  How to strengthen a dog’s hind limbs. Rehabilitation of the back legs in dogs. Different techniques include massage, TENS, or heat therapy.
• Preventing Knee Injuries in Your Rescue Dog
  Tips on how to keep your rescue safe from knee injuries.
• Fish Oil For dogs | Canine Arthritis Resources and Education
  Omega 3 Fatty acid supplementation can be a natural method of decreasing pain associated with arthritis. Omega 3 has been shown to improve muscle strength.