Possible risk factor for canine knee problems is identified
Dogs sometimes injure a structure in the knee known as the cruciate ligament. The purpose of the cruciate ligament is to hold the joint steady when the dog walks, runs, or jumps. Trauma to the ligament results in pain and limping, and often requires major corrective surgery. Later in life, arthritis almost always develops in the knee that was injured.
Dogs commonly injure their cruciate ligaments by landing wrong while playing fetch, or falling down stairs, or by being tackled by another dog. Large-breed dogs are at increased risk. So are overweight dogs.
And a study published in the December 1, 2007 issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) suggests that the timing of surgical neutering may be a risk factor as well.
The paper is titled “Risk factors for excessive tibial plateau angle in large-breed dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease.” Here is a quote from its abstract.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance — Results suggested that early neutering was a significant risk factor for development of excessive [tibial plateau angle] in large-breed dogs with [cruciate ligament disease]. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2007; 231:1688 - 1691)
Translated into English, the authors suggest that early neutering may be a risk factor for knee injuries in large dogs. Early neutering (at less than six months of age) appears to affect the growth patterns and orientation of bones in the knee. This may increase the risk of knee injury later in life.
Does this mean that large dogs should not be neutered at less than six months of age? It’s too soon to tell. The appropriate timing of neutering is a complex issue. This study adds another piece to the puzzle.
You have questions. 
This is great information! My dog was just diagnosed with a cruciate ligament tear…he’s a bullmastiff. He was neutered right at 6 months.
This is so common that when Buddah was diagnosed yesterday, my vet was taking care of 2 brothers that are rotties that same day that did the same thing! And her own 2 malamutes did the same thing 1 year apart.
I know my dog is not overweight at all, but I wonder if waiting a little longer than 6 months to get larger breeds neutered, if it would be beneficial to their bones??
thanks!
Jade P
Buddah
Chicago
PS I left you a question about my bullie.
Based on the information I’ve seen, it may make sense to pospone neutering beyond 6 months in some large-breed dogs. However, as doctors love to say, more research will be needed to know for sure.
Remember as well that there are disadvantages to delaying the surgery. For instance, there are higher rates of surgical complications when neutering and spaying older dogs.
Your best bet is to have a long talk with your vet about your dog’s particular circumstances before spaying or neutering.
Cruciate ligament injuries can occur in any dog (and, rarely, cats), regardless of size, age, weight, or breed. However, they are most common in large dogs and in overweight dogs.
I (Trooper) recently had a knee problem, however, my knee cap had been dislocated, and the vet put it back into position. I may require surgery within the next year. They X-Rayed (Yes, that primitive technology before Star Trek: Voyager’s era) my knees when I was under general anesthetic when I had my teeth cleaned, and the vet noticed a small growth. He said it was nothing to worry about, but is his somehow related to the above condition?
Emma had surgery on both her knees for torn CL’s. She is a very active golden/lab mix who was at an ideal weight at that time.The first operation was on her left knee in Feb. 2006 and than her right knee in June 2006. It took her about a year and a half to get back to 90% with lots of swimming and low impact walks. Although she is not 100% she is doing so much better! Emma was spayed late at age 8 months after we adopted her. I think it was her constant chasing of tennis balls that did her in.
[…] that they do not). As well, dogs that undergo surgery early in life may be at increased risk of knee injury and hip […]
Could anyone describe a dog’s gait when they have an cruciate ligament tear?
We have a St. Bernard, she’s just going to be 9 mths old next week. She was spayed shortly after 6 mths.
Last night we noticed her hind legs sort of “popping out” at the knee. that is, moving from pointing back like usual to “popping” foreward toward her front legs at the end of a stride.
it seems to be more pronounced when she’s strolling slowly, less so when she’s moving quickly.
She doesn’t seem to be uncomfortable. We of course have an appointment scheduled to have our vet see her, but any info in the meantime might shed some light and would be greatly appreciated.
thanks,
john