Puppy Diagnosed With a Damaged ACL Now Running Normally

It's possible for a limp to improve even with a real cruciate ligament injury. With a partial tear, dogs often have good days and bad days, and pain can settle for a while even though the knee is still unstable. Partial tears in dogs almost always progress over time. On the other hand, knee pain in a young puppy can also come from other problems, such as a slipping kneecap or a growth-related joint problem.

Rather than assume one or the other, ask your vet for a recheck now that she's moving well. They can test the knee for looseness and may suggest X-rays or a referral to a board-certified surgeon. Until then, limit hard running, jumping and rough play to protect the knee.

See torn ACL in dogs and dog limping.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.