Orthopedic Dog Leg Brace

Information on how a dog leg brace can help your pet who has been injured or suffering from a debilitating joint disease such as canine arthritis.

When Does a Dog Need a Leg Brace

Besides using a dog leg brace for arthritic conditions or joint disease, it can also be used when your dog suffers from injury.

Dog leg braces are typically used on rehabilitating dogs who are healing from injuries or arthritis. Like orthopedic braces that humans use, canine leg braces work in similar ways.

Orthopedic leg braces for dogs offer protection and rehabilitation for muscles in the dog’s leg. It also provide stability and control to the joints and help protects from re-injury. Canine leg braces are also useful for ligament injuries.

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All dog leg braces are designed to support the injured leg by keeping it straight, immobile and prevents the dog from injuring it further while undergoing the rehabilitation process.

Basically, your dog may need a leg brace or other types of mobility aid if he suffers from any of the following:

• Degenerative joint disease such as canine arthritis
• Infections or injuries that lead to lameness, limping, joint or muscle weakness
• Fractures and dislocations of the joints which cause the dog to be unable to walk
• Hereditary orthopedic diseases such as canine hip dysplasia
• Post-op recovery

Types of Leg Braces For Dogs

The type of leg brace that your dog requires depends on the condition of the dog and what type of injury your pet has sustained. There are several types of dog braces, including hip brace, wrist brace, hock brace and lifting harness. These braces are usually made of a nylon material or even leather.

A hip brace can be used if your dog experiences from decreased endurance during activity, hip pain, low back pain or weakness and back leg limping. Similarly, it can also help correct and accommodate hip joints that no longer function properly due to injuries, old age, or joint disease.

A wrist brace (or wrap) stabilizes the dog's forearm and supports the muscles and tendons of the wrist and leg. Generally, it is used on dogs who are experiencing pain or suffered from weak wrists on their front legs.

A hock holder is placed on the dog’s back leg below the knee. Corresponding to the ankle on humans, this holder will support the hock joint of the dog to prevent it from hyper extending

What to Look For in a Leg Brace

With so many types and different brands of dog leg braces available in the market, it is essential that you know what you are looking for when you are getting a orthopedic leg brace for your dog. It is also advisable to take your dog to the veterinary for a diagnosis of its condition so that you know what type of brace is suitable for your dog.

• You should choose a dog brace that is made of a durable material and of high quality construction.
• The brace must also be lightweight as a heavy one will only worsen your dog’s condition and hinder his movements.
• It must be adjustable to fit your dog’s hips or legs as your pet grows older or bigger.

You will want to find a retailer that is willing to give your advice and information about which brace works best for your pet. Ensuring that your dog is feeling comfortable at all times is important.

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Additional Considerations When Choosing a Canine Leg Brace

You will need to consider several factors when choosing a leg brace for your dog. The most important factor is the type of injury or condition that your dog is suffering from. For example, if he has hind-leg problems, then a hock holder will be suitable. If he is suffering from mild to moderate hip dysplasia, a hip brace is necessary. Another factor would be the size and weight of your dog. Be sure to purchase the right size of brace for your dog. An adjustable brace is highly recommended.

Price Range of Leg Brace

Generally, the price range of the leg brace is dependable on the size of the dog and casting. The larger the dog, the more expensive it is going to be. For casting kit, it generally cost around $60. Prices for custom made orthopedic leg brace generally start from $500 and above. Higher quality braces will also tend to cost more.

As using dog orthotics is useful and beneficial for rehabilitating dogs, spending more money on a quality dog leg brace ensures the best medical interest for your dog’s health and joint comfort (by minimizing pain and encouraging more free range of motion.)

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