The Complete Guide to Dog Leg Braces

    Cruciate Care Knee Brace   |   Hip Hound Brace   |  Wrist Wraps   |   Hock Holder

Solutions for Canine Mobility & Joint Support

Your trusted resource for understanding dog leg injuries and canine knee, hip, wrist and hock support braces. 

Leg injuries and mobility problems affect millions of dogs each year. Whether caused by genetics, aging, or physical trauma, joint conditions can limit movement, reduce comfort, and impact quality of life.

Whether your dog is dealing with a torn ACL, hip dysplasia, or arthritis, the right brace can make all the difference in their comfort and activity level.

This guide explains the most common dog joint injuries, early warning signs, treatment options, and how supportive solutions such as dog hip braces and dog knee braces can help improve stability and mobility.

Check out the Ortho Dog Leg Brace Collection

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Table of Contents

• Understanding Canine Leg Injuries
• Dog Knee Injuries: Symptoms, Treatment and Non-Surgical Options
• Hip Dysplasia and Arthritis: Increasing Mobility with Conservative Treatment
• Wrist and Hock Braces for Carpal and Tarsal Support
• Choosing the Right Dog Brace: Sizing, Fit, and Breed Considerations
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Testimonials
• Ready to Help Your Dog Move Better?

Understanding Canine Leg Injuries and Mobility Issues

Just like people, dogs can suffer from both sudden injuries and gradual wear-and-tear conditions. Understanding what's happening in your dog's body is the first step toward helping them recover.

The most common issues we see include:

Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Injuries: The canine equivalent of a human ACL tear, these injuries often happen during sudden movements like quick turns while running or jumping. When the CCL partially or fully tears, it causes instability in the knee joint, pain, and difficulty walking. This is one of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs.

Hip Dysplasia: This inherited condition occurs when the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to looseness in the joint. Over time, it causes painful arthritis and decreased mobility. Large breeds like German Shepherds, Labs, and Golden Retrievers are particularly prone to hip dysplasia, but it can affect dogs of all sizes.

Arthritis: Just like humans, dogs can develop osteoarthritis as they age. This painful condition results from the wearing down of cartilage in the joints, causing inflammation, stiffness, and reduced activity. 

General Back End Weakness:  You might notice your senior dog slowing down or having trouble getting up in the morning. Often, we notice that their back legs splay or collapse, or they become reluctant to climb stairs.

Carpal and Tarsal Injuries: The carpal joint (wrist) in the front leg and the tarsal joint (hock or ankle) in the back leg can suffer from sprains, hyperextension injuries, and arthritis. These issues can make it difficult for dogs to bear weight on the affected leg.

Read more about common canine injuries

Canine Knee Injuries

Not all knee injuries are created equal, and understanding your dog's specific condition is crucial in determining whether a brace might be appropriate.

CCL/ACL Tears: These range from partial to complete tears of the crucial ligament that stabilizes your dog's knee. Partial tears especially may respond well to bracing, which provides stability while the body's natural healing processes work.

Knee Sprains: Less severe than tears, sprains involve stretching or minor damage to ligaments. These injuries often benefit from the support and limited mobility that a proper knee brace provides.

Arthritis and Degenerative Joint Disease: Many senior dogs develop arthritis in their knees. A brace can help distribute weight more evenly, reducing pain and improving mobility without medication side effects.

Post-Surgery Recovery: Even if your dog has already undergone knee surgery, a brace can be valuable during the rehabilitation phase, providing extra support as they rebuild strength.

Read More About Dog Knee Injuries: Symptoms & Treatment Guide

What is a Canine Cruciate Ligament (CCL/ACL) Tear?

The cruciate ligaments in your dog's knee (technically called the stifle joint) are essential for stability. The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in dogs serves the same function as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in humans—it prevents the tibia (shin bone) from sliding forward relative to the femur (thigh bone).

When this ligament tears, it creates instability in the joint. Your dog feels like their knee might give way at any moment (because it actually might). This leads to pain, inflammation, and changes in how they walk. Left untreated, the instability can lead to meniscus damage and accelerated arthritis.

What are the signs of an ACL / CCL Tear?

Early identification of knee injuries allows for faster intervention and better long-term outcomes. Dogs with knee injuries often show sudden gait changes and difficulty bearing weight. Both partial and full tears can impact long-term knee health.

Common symptoms include:

• Sudden limping
• Holding one hind leg up
• Knee swelling
• Reduced activity
• Clicking or popping sounds

What Are Treatment Options for Dog ACL / CCL Injuries?

Surgical Options:

There are three surgical options-- all have pros, cons, and risks. Depending on on the procedure and your location, costs can range from $2000 - $10,000.

The lateral suture technique involves replacing the torn ligament with a false ligament (a single fiber plastic line called a mono-filament) on the outside of the joint.

TPLO eliminates the need for the CCL ligament because of the way the tibia is cut and rotated. The tibial plateau is cut and rotated into a more flat position. 

TTA also changes the dynamics of the knee by stabilizing the knee joint. During this surgery, the tibia bone is advanced forward, a bone spacer is inserted, and a stainless steel metal plate secures the bone in place. 

In addition to the financial considerations and medical risks of surgery, there is also the time and supervision required for post-op recovery and rehabilitation. Healing time can include complete inactivity for 8 to 12 weeks.

Are There Non-Surgical Options for Canine ACL / CCL Injuries?

Non-surgical approaches, including properly designed braces, can provide support, stability, and pain relief while allowing the body's natural healing processes to work. For older dogs, dogs with health concerns that make surgery risky, or for families where surgery isn't financially feasible, braces offer an effective alternative.

Bracing can be used alongside a range of other conservative treatment modalities. Acupuncture, supplements (fish oil, turmeric, and glucosamine), swimming, and massage can also aid in your dog’s recovery from a CCL tear.

As with anything dog-health-related, go over the pros and cons of each option with your vet. We hope your furry best friends are back to their old selves in no time.

How Do Dog Knee Braces Work for ACL and CCL Injuries?

Quality knee braces work by providing external stability to the joint, essentially doing the job of the damaged ligament. This creates an environment where healing can occur naturally while preventing further injury. The brace limits harmful movements while still allowing your dog to walk, run, and play.

A well-designed knee brace works by limiting the forward movement of the tibia relative to the femur—essentially doing the job of the damaged ligament. This provides the following key benefits:

• Improving joint stability
• Reducing stress on injured ligaments
• Supporting rehabilitation exercises
• Increasing movement confidence
• Providing compression for comfort

Most importantly, effective bracing allows your dog to maintain a more normal activity level during recovery, which helps preserve muscle mass and promotes better long-term outcomes—whether as a stand-alone treatment or as part of a comprehensive management plan.  Read More About How a Dog Stifle Brace Works

When Should I Consider a Knee Brace for my Dog?

A knee brace may be appropriate when surgery is not recommended, delayed, or not financially feasible. Conservative management using bracing and rehabilitation is often considered for partial CCL tears, senior dogs, lower-activity dogs, or cases where owners prefer non-surgical options.

Common situations include:

• Partial ligament tears
• Mild to moderate instability
• Senior dogs with arthritis
• Post-operative recovery support
• Conservative treatment plans
  

What Can a Knee Brace Not Do?

While knee braces provide valuable support, they do not reverse joint damage nor can they support conditions that are neurologically based. They are intended to complement veterinary care and rehabilitation rather than replace professional diagnosis or treatment.

The best outcomes come from proper sizing, correct application, and use as part of a comprehensive care plan that might include anti-inflammatory medications, controlled exercise, physical therapy, and weight management.

A brace cannot replace a veterinarian's diagnosis.

Will a Knee Brace Help My Dog Recover?

Dog knee braces stabilize the knee joint by limiting harmful motion and supporting healing.

The Cruciate Care Knee Brace has helped thousands of dogs recover from CCL injuries without surgery. The results can be remarkable—and quick. Thomas, one of our customers, shared his experience:

"First day of wearing the brace my dog was able to walk again. She could put weight on her bad leg and even got a small burst of zoomies. Which I had to slow her down so as to not further injure herself. Seeing my dog do that made this purchase well worth it. Now almost a week later and my dog is much more mobile."

Read More success Stories Here

What Does a Comprehensive Non-Surgical Treatment Plan Look Like?

A knee brace works best as part of a holistic approach to your dog's recovery. For optimal results, consider combining bracing with:

Weight management: Weight management helps reduce stress on affected joints by decreasing the total load the hips and knees experience during daily movement. Maintaining a healthy body condition score can slow the progression of arthritis and improve comfort.

Controlled exercise: Short, gentle leashed walks help maintain muscle without overexertion.

Physical therapy: Professional canine rehabilitation can dramatically improve outcomes.

Anti-inflammatory support: Whether through prescription medications or natural supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, anti-inflammatory drugs and supplements help reduce pain and increase comfort for your dog.

Home modifications: Non-slip flooring and ramps can help prevent re-injury during recovery.

Common Canine Hip Issues: Hip Dysplasia and Arthritis

Hip braces help stabilize the hip joint by providing compression and support, which can reduce pain and improve mobility for dogs with hip dysplasia and arthritis. Braces support a dog’s hip joint by reducing excessive motion and providing gentle compression to improve comfort and mobility, especially for dogs with hip dysplasia or arthritis. Senior dogs may also suffer from general back end weakness and need help recovering their mobility.

What is Hip Dysplasia?

Dog hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint. When pieces of the joint (the ball and socket) do not fit together normally, the bones painfully rub together and the hip joint becomes unstable. Over time there is a loss of cartilage and the condition can result in chronic pain or lameness and cause long-term degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis). A brace can added beneficial support to the joint.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia?

Dogs with hip dysplasia may show the following symptoms: difficulty getting up, climbing stairs, jumping, or performing other physical exercises. They may also become lethargic or show a decrease in activity. Dogs with hip dysplasia often exhibit a narrow, “bunny hopping” gait and you may hear grating sounds in their hip area during exercise. Pain, joint looseness, lameness, and loss of muscle mass are also possible.

Learn More in this Article About Dog Hip Dysplasia

What Causes Hip Dysplasia?

One major cause of CHD is genetics. If a puppy’s parents have hip dysplasia, the puppy’s chances of getting it are more than doubled. However, improper diet and insufficient exercise can also cause hip dysplasia since excess weight and lack of exercise can put extra pressure on a dog’s joints.

Treatments for Dog Hip Dysplasia

There is no cure for hip dysplasia in dogs. However, there are many treatments that have proven to be effective in providing pain relief in older dogs and preventing further damage in puppies. 

• Exercise: Strengthen the muscles and prevent degeneration.  Excessive exercise can actually cause muscle and joint damage, so consult with a veterinarian.
  
  
• Weight Control: Insure that your dog stays at a healthy weight to minimize damage to its hip joints.
  
  
• Surgery: In extreme cases, surgery may be the best option. Your veterinarian can provide more information.
  
  
• Orthopedic Braces:  Dog hip braces, such as Ortho Dog’s Hip Hound Brace, provide support and stability to minimize pressure on dog joints and allow for post-surgical healing or pain-free exercise. Braces come in all sizes so you can find one that is perfect for your pet and allows for maximum support. 

For puppies and younger dogs, the more quickly they are treated the better the outcome. We recommend bracing combined with exercise as early as possible to slow down the progression of the disease.  

How Does a Dog Hip Brace Work?

Unlike knee injuries, we can't replace the function of damaged structures in the hip joint with a brace. However, a well-designed hip brace can significantly improve comfort and function through several mechanisms:

Compression and Support: By providing gentle compression around the hip and lower back area, a hip brace gives dogs a sense of stability and support. This compression can help reduce pain and improve proprioception (awareness of body position).

Muscle Engagement: The pressure and support from the brace help engage the muscles around the hip joint, promoting better muscle function and joint stability.

Pain Reduction: The support provided by the brace can reduce pain by limiting extreme movements and providing a consistent pressure that many dogs find comforting.

Improved Confidence: When dogs feel more stable, they move more confidently, which can lead to better muscle development and overall function.

How Long Can Dogs Live with Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a chronic condition, but it is not terminal. That means dogs with hip dysplasia can live to ripe old ages, the key is managing discomfort. Many dogs live happy, healthy full lives with the help of a dog hip brace. Check out Gus's Success Story Here

What is Canine Arthritis?

Canine arthritis is inflammation of the joints characterized by pain and stiffness caused by bones and joints rubbing together due to damage or loss of cartilage. 

What are the Common Symptoms of Arthritis?

Arthritis is one of the most common canine health conditions. All dogs, especially older dogs, are susceptible to arthritis. 

The symptoms of arthritis in dogs are mostly related to stiffness and a decrease in general mobility, including:

• Difficulty getting up
• Stiffness or lameness
• Difficulty squatting to use the bathroom or having accidents in the house
• Decreased stamina
• Short bursts of activity, followed by fatigue
• Exhibiting pain when petted or touched, particularly around the hind legs
• Irritability and behavioral changes

Read About Dog Arthritis: Natural Remedies & Treatment Tips

What is the Treatment for Canine Arthritis?

While there is no cure for arthritis, there are several at-home remedies and practices that can alleviate the symptoms of arthritis and allow for pain-free activity.

• Orthopedic Brace Support
• Diet and Exercise
• Supplements (glucosamine and chondroitin are the most common)
• Pain Medication

Your veterinarian may have additional recommendations for how to manage your dog’s arthritis that will fit into your at-home routine.

How Else Can I Help My Dogs Hip Pain and Instability?

By working with your vet or a qualified canine rehabilitation clinic the complementary techniques listed below can lead to improved mobility and reduced discomfort for active and happy dogs.  

• Cold laser therapy
• Acupuncture
• Craniosacral therapy
• Underwater treadmill therapy 
• Chiropractic manipulation
• Diets and Supplements
• Orthopedic Hip Braces

What Hip Brace is Best for My Dog?

The Ortho Dog Hip Hound Brace was born of necessity when Ortho Dog's founder Elizabeth's beloved dog Zoie was diagnosed with hip dysplasia. Working with veterinary professionals, she designed a brace that would provide support without restricting normal movement. The Hip Hound wraps around the hips and lower back, providing gentle compression and support to the entire hip area. It's adjustable for a custom fit and designed to stay in place during activity while remaining comfortable for extended wear.

Will A Hip Brace Help My Dog?

The impact of hip support can be dramatic. Julie, who has an 11-year-old German Shepherd, shared: "This brace really made a big difference with my 11-year-old German Shepherd. She's been on medication for her hip for years and it is hard on her stomach. She's been off of it for over a week and is doing great!"

Andrea, whose puppy has hip dysplasia, found the brace transformed what her dog could do: "Using the OrthoDog Hip Brace she can run with her dog friends, chase squirrels in the park, generally romp around twice a day off leash without issue, no limping afterwards, no heat on her hips. The Hip Brace has been a game changer for my little girl."

What are Some Complementary Approaches for Canine Hip Health?

While a hip brace can provide significant support, the best results come from a comprehensive approach:

Weight management is crucial—extra pounds put additional stress on already compromised joints.

Controlled, low-impact exercise helps maintain muscle mass without causing pain.

Physical therapy techniques like swimming can strengthen muscles without stressing joints.

Joint supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids may help support joint health.

An orthopedic hip brace  allows dogs to remain active and comfortable while the other strategies work to improve their overall joint health.

Learn About  Surgical vs Non-Invasive Options for Dog Hip Issues

Wrist and Hock Braces for Carpal and Tarsal Support

What Are Some Common Leg Lower Joint Issues in Dogs?

While knee and hip problems get a lot of attention, issues affecting the lower joints of the legs can be just as debilitating for dogs. The carpal joint (equivalent to our wrist) in the front leg and the tarsal joint (similar to our ankle) in the rear leg play crucial roles in your dog's mobility.

These complex joints contain multiple small bones, ligaments, and tendons that work together to provide both stability and flexibility. When these structures are damaged through injury or weakened by conditions like arthritis, dogs can experience significant pain and mobility limitations.

What are Common Conditions in the Wrist and Hock Joints?

Front and rear lower leg issues typically fall into several categories:

Hyperextension Injuries: These occur when the joint extends beyond its normal range of motion, often due to trauma like jumping from a height or stopping suddenly. The ligaments that normally prevent excessive extension become stretched or torn.

Sprains and Strains: These injuries involve damage to the ligaments (sprains) or muscles and tendons (strains) around the joint, usually resulting from awkward landings, slips, or intense activity.

Arthritis: Just like other joints, the carpus and tarsus can develop arthritis, leading to stiffness, decreased range of motion, and pain.

Growth Deformities: Some dogs, especially rapidly growing large breeds, can develop conformational issues that affect the alignment and function of these joints.

Find Out How to Identify and Treat Sprains, Hyperextension and Other Common Dog Wrist Injuries

How Do Wrist and Hock Braces Work?

Specialized braces for these lower joints serve several important functions:

Limited Range of Motion: Braces can prevent hyperextension and other abnormal movements that cause pain while still allowing normal flexion for walking.

Stability During Healing: For sprains and strains, a brace immobilizes the joint enough to allow damaged tissues to heal properly without complete restriction of movement.

Support for Weak Structures: In cases of chronic instability or arthritis, braces provide the external support that weakened internal structures can no longer provide.

Pain Reduction: By limiting painful movements and providing compression, braces can significantly reduce discomfort and improve willingness to use the limb.

 

 

Will A Brace Work For My Dog?
The Wrist Wrap and Hock Holder- Success Stories

The Ortho Dog Wrist Wrap and Hock Holder braces are designed specifically for the unique anatomy of these complex joints. They provide targeted support where it's needed most while allowing for natural movement during regular activities.

Ellen, whose large Lab/Pyrenees mix suffered from front leg limping, found our Wrist Wrap made an immediate difference: "Since she's been wearing the wrap, she's stopped limping and I think she must like it because she's calm and willing to have it put on in the morning... I ordered this product as an experiment, but I'm happy to say that it has been a success."

Some dogs, like Sabrina's 12-year-old Shepherd/Husky mix, benefit from multiple braces: "Conan wears the wrist and ankle braces, as well as a hip hound brace while on walks or long hikes." This comprehensive support allows dogs with multiple joint issues to remain active and comfortable.

Read More Bracing Success Stories

When Should I Consider Lower Limb Bracing?

Wrist and hock braces are particularly beneficial for:

• Dogs recovering from acute injuries.
  
  
• Active dogs needing additional support.
  
  
• Senior dogs with arthritis or weakness.
  
  
• Dogs with joint laxity.
  
  
• Working or sporting dogs who need preventive support.

Many carpal and tarsal issues respond well to conservative management, with bracing being a key component of the treatment plan.

 

Learn More About Dog Hock injuries

Learn More About Dog Wrist injuries

 

Choosing the Right Dog Brace

Choosing a dog leg brace depends on a number of factors including diagnosis, fit and function. Your vet may suggest an adjustable brace for the most precise sizing.

How Do I Know if My Brace Fits Properly?

A brace is only effective if it fits correctly. Too loose, and it won't provide adequate support; too tight, and it could cause discomfort or restrict blood flow. The right fit is crucial for both effectiveness and your dog's willingness to wear the brace.

Each type of brace has specific fitting requirements, but there are some general principles that apply to all:

Accurate Measurements: Taking precise measurements is the foundation of getting the right fit. Measurement points vary by brace type, but generally involve circumference measurements at specific points on the leg.

Proper Placement: Even the right size brace won't work if it's not positioned correctly on the leg. Each brace should be aligned with specific anatomical landmarks for maximum effectiveness. Ortho Dog offers Free Fit Consultations to ensure proper fit and placement.

Adjustment for Comfort: Most quality braces have multiple adjustment points to fine-tune the fit for your dog's unique anatomy.

Monitoring for Issues: Regular checking for any signs of rubbing, slipping, or discomfort ensures the brace continues to work as intended.

How Do I Measure My Dog for a Brace?

For both knee and hip braces, you'll typically need to measure the circumference of the leg halfway between the knee and the groin area. The height measurement for both braces should be taken with your dog standing from the floor by the back paw straight up to the top of the hip. 

Wrist and hock braces require only the weight of your dog.

It's important to have your dog standing normally when taking measurements, with weight evenly distributed on all four legs. 

When in doubt, our fit specialists are available for free consultations to guide you through the measuring process and help you select the right size.

Learn How To Measure Your Dog for a Brace

Which Breeds can Benefit from a Dog Leg Brace?

All dogs, large or small will benefit from a knee or hip brace when indicated. Some Breeds that are more susceptible to injury or chronic conditions of the joints are:

• Labrador Retrievers
• Boxers
  
• German Shepherds
  
• Pitbulls
  
• Australian shepherds
• Golden Retrievers
  
• Doodles
• Awesome Mixed Breed Pups too!

Read more about canine injuries

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my dog wear a brace all day?

No, most dogs shouldn't wear braces 24/7. We typically recommend building up to 8-12 hours of wear during active periods, removing the brace at night or during extended rest periods. This gives the skin a chance to breathe and prevents potential irritation.

Will My Dog Adjust to Wearing a Brace?

Even with perfect sizing, there's an adjustment period for both you and your dog. Most dogs adapt quickly to wearing a brace, especially when they associate it with reduced pain and increased mobility. 

Start with wearing the brace for short periods and gradually increase as your dog becomes more comfortable. Use positive reinforcement and treats to create positive associations with the brace. Watch for any signs of discomfort, such as excessive licking or reluctance to move.

Remember that putting on and taking off the brace gets easier with practice. Many customers report that their dogs eventually recognize the brace as something that helps them and will actually present their leg for application.

How to I Clean and Care for My Dog's Brace?

Proper care extends the life of the brace and ensures it remains comfortable for your dog: Regular cleaning with a lint roller to remove excess fur can be combined with handwashing in lukewarm water with gentle laundry soap. Always hang it to dry. 

With proper fitting, use, and care, a quality dog brace can provide years of support, helping your canine companion maintain mobility and quality of life.

Read More About Care and Maintenance

How long will my dog need to wear a brace?

The duration depends on your dog's specific condition. For acute injuries like CCL tears, many dogs wear braces from 8 to 13 weeks while healing occurs. For chronic conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia, long-term use during activity may be beneficial. Some dogs use braces situationally—only for walks or play—while others benefit from more regular wear.

Can a brace replace surgery for my dog's torn ACL/CCL?

For many dogs, a properly fitted knee brace can be an effective alternative to surgery. This is especially true for partial tears, older dogs, or dogs with health issues that make surgery risky. The brace provides stability while scar tissue and a callus form over the tear. It also helps stabilize the joint. However, some severe cases may still ultimately require surgical intervention. A consultation with your veterinarian, will help determine the best approach for your specific dog. Read more about surgery alternatives here.

How do I know if the brace is working?

Signs that a brace is providing benefit include: improved weight-bearing on the affected leg, increased willingness to be active, decreased limping, and better mobility when the brace is on. Most dogs show some improvement within the first few days of proper brace wear, with continued improvement over several weeks as they gain confidence in the support provided.

What if My Dog Doesn't Like the Brace??

Most dogs adapt well to braces, especially when they experience the relief they provide. Some dogs may initially try to walk out of the brace or walk strangely, but these behaviors typically resolve quickly with positive reinforcement and as they realize the brace helps them move more comfortably. Starting with short periods of wear and gradually increasing duration helps with acceptance.

What Makes Ortho Dog Braces Different from Other  Braces?

Ortho Dog braces are ready made braces that are flexible and made in the USA. They ship within 1 to 3 business days and come with support for the life of the brace. Each brace comes with a Free Fit Consultation to assist you with the application and advise on the next steps.

The bilateral design of our Cruciate Care Knee Brace allows your dog to place even weight on both legs so as not to favor the injured leg and/or place to much weight on the healthy leg. We offer the opposite leg components as a separate product so that if a dog injures the opposite leg, an existing  customer can save money on the components they already own. Reach out to one of our Fit Specialists prior to making a purchase to ensure you have what you need.

Do Veterinarians Recommend Dog Braces?

Veterinarians often recommend braces for dogs suffering from orthopedic issues such as arthritis, hip dysplasia and partial cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears. Braces offer pre and post surgical support and in some cases replace surgery when a dog is too old or suffering from other conditions that make them unfit for surgery.

Braces help to reduce pain and inflammation that result from chronic issues as well as limit movement and stabilize the joint to prevent further injury in acute cases.

As a holistic veterinary practitioner, I am open to taking whatever route is the best way to have an animal thrive. This differs from conventional veterinary care in that holistic veterinarians are, for the most part, more likely to try minimally-invasive options first.

- Dr. Laurel, DVM, Sunvet Animal Wellness

 

Your veterinarian may decide that surgery is the best approach for your dog depending on their age and health status. Consulting with your vet prior to making a purchase will help determine if the brace is right for your dog.

Common Dog Health Terms and Definitions

Are Customers Happy With Ortho Dog Braces?

Customers have had great success with Ortho Dog Knee and Hip Braces. Read a selection of testimonials below. 

Thomas: "My pittie tore her ACL and the vet quoted me $4,000 per knee and recommended both knees. I love my dog but I don't have that kind of money to spare. I found this brace after a quick Google search and the price was much more manageable. First day of wearing the brace my dog was able to walk again. She could put weight on her bad leg and even got a small burst of zoomies. Which I had to slow her down so as to not further injure herself. Seeing my dog do that made this purchase well worth it. Now almost a week later and my dog is much more mobile."

Ash: "The care and help we received to have our dog fit and wear this brace was fantastic. And now the quality of life has returned for our dog to enjoy walks and play again. I would highly recommend this product."

Julie: "This brace really made a big difference with my 11 yo German Shepherd. She's been on medication for her hip for years and it is hard on her stomach. She's been off of it for over a week and is doing great! Customer service was amazing too. I'll buy another one when this one wears out. Thanks Ortho Dog!"

Andrea: "I have a nine (9) month old puppy with hip dysplasia. Running left her lame with heat radiating from her hips. Using the OrthoDog Hip Brace she can run with her dog friends, chase squirrels in the park, generally romp around twice a day off leash without issue, no limping afterwards, no heat on her hips. The Hip Brace has been a game changer for my little girl."

Read more Bracing Success Stories 

Ready to Help Your Dog Move More Easily?

Seeing your dog struggle with mobility is difficult, but you have options. For over 22 years, Ortho Dog has been helping dogs of all breeds and sizes regain their mobility and quality of life with our American-made, veterinarian-approved braces.

Our team understands what you're going through because we've been there ourselves. That's why we offer free fit consultations to ensure you get the right solution for your dog's specific needs.

Whether your dog is dealing with a torn CCL, hip dysplasia, arthritis, or another mobility challenge, we're here to help. Our braces provide effective support without the high cost and recovery time of surgery.

Don't let your dog miss out on the walks, play, and activities they love. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let's get your canine companion back on their paws.

Need help finding the right brace? Our fit specialists are just a phone call away. We'll help you take accurate measurements and select the perfect support solution for your dog's specific condition and body type.

Made with love in the USA, our braces are crafted with care by our team in Western North Carolina. We use primarily American-sourced materials and take pride in being a women-owned small business that's been living wage certified since 2016.

Your dog deserves to live their best life. Let's make that happen together.

Call our team for a free consultation at 828-298-0885, email us at info@orthodog.com, or browse our dog leg brace options. We ship worldwide with free domestic shipping on orders over $50.

Your dog deserves a chance to heal comfortably—we're here to help make that happen.