Achilles tendon
repair.
The Achilles tendon in dogs.
The Achilles tendon (gastrocnemius tendon) connects the calf muscles to the hock (ankle) joint. It is essential for standing, walking, and running — it keeps the hock in extension so the dog can bear weight. When it ruptures, the hock drops and the dog cannot use the leg properly.
Ruptures can be partial (some fibers intact, hock still partially functional) or complete (full separation, hock drops completely). Complete ruptures require surgery — the tendon ends retract and cannot heal on their own. Partial tears may be managed conservatively with a splint, but surgery provides more reliable outcomes, especially for active dogs.
Signs of a rupture.
Dropped hock
The ankle joint appears flat or dropped — the dog stands plantigrade (walking on the hock instead of on the toes).
Sudden lameness
Often occurs during or immediately after activity. The dog may hold the leg up or bear weight abnormally.
Swelling
Swelling or thickening at the back of the hock where the tendon is located. May be painful to touch.
Inability to push off
The dog cannot push off with the affected leg when running or jumping. Gait is noticeably different.
Recovery timeline.
Achilles tendon recovery is longer than most orthopedic procedures. The tendon heals slowly and strict immobilization is critical — any premature movement can disrupt the repair.
Surgery performed. Full cast or splint applied to immobilize the hock in extension. Hospital stay for pain management.
Cast changes every 1-2 weeks. Strict cage rest. No weight-bearing beyond what the cast allows. E-collar at all times.
Transition to a splint or brace. Begin very short, controlled leash walks (5 min). Passive range-of-motion exercises.
Splint removed if tendon healing is confirmed on ultrasound. Gradually increasing walk duration (10-15 min).
Continued gradual return to activity. Full functional recovery may take up to 20 weeks. Physical rehabilitation recommended.
Achilles repair FAQs.
How much does Achilles tendon surgery cost for a dog?
Nationally, Achilles tendon repair surgery ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the severity of the tear, the dog's size, and the specific surgical technique required. At WMVO, we give you a straight price on the phone — no paid consultation required. Call us at (616) 364-3333.
How long does it take for a dog's Achilles tendon to heal?
The tendon requires 8-10 weeks of strict immobilization in a cast or splint. After the splint is removed, gradual return to activity continues over several more weeks. Full functional recovery can take up to 20 weeks. Dogs with acute injuries (treated within 21 days of the rupture) tend to have better outcomes than chronic cases.
Can a dog walk with a torn Achilles tendon?
Dogs with a partial tear may still walk, but the gait is abnormal — the hock (ankle) appears dropped or flat because the tendon cannot hold it in extension. With a complete rupture, the dog cannot bear weight properly on the affected leg. Surgery is recommended for both partial and complete tears to restore function and prevent further tendon retraction.
What causes Achilles tendon rupture in dogs?
Most ruptures are caused by acute trauma — a sudden forceful extension of the hock while the tendon is under load, such as landing awkwardly from a jump or slipping on a surface. Some cases involve chronic degeneration, often associated with systemic conditions like Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) or long-term corticosteroid use. Sighthounds and lurchers are predisposed to Achilles injuries.
What does Achilles tendon surgery involve?
The surgical approach depends on whether the tear is partial or complete. For a complete rupture, the tendon ends are reconnected using strong suture material in a locking-loop or three-loop pulley pattern. The hock is then immobilized in a cast in extension to protect the repair while the tendon heals. For partial tears, the damaged tissue is debrided and the tendon is reinforced. In some cases, a tendon graft or synthetic mesh may be used.
Will my dog return to normal after Achilles surgery?
Most dogs return to good function, though the recovery is longer than many other orthopedic procedures. The key factors are early intervention (acute tears heal better than chronic ones), strict immobilization during the healing phase, and a structured rehabilitation program after the splint is removed. We will guide you through every step of the process.
Dog with a dropped hock?
That flat ankle is often an Achilles tendon rupture. Early intervention matters — acute tears have better outcomes than chronic ones. Call us today.