Best ACL Brace for Dogs

Annabelle Evans

By Annabelle Evans

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Dogs are energetic companions, but they can sometimes suffer from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, which are crucial for stabilizing the knee during movement. When damaged, dogs may experience pain, lameness, and difficulty walking. ACL braces for dogs provide support to the injured knee, aiding in recovery by limiting joint movement and reducing stress on the ligament. These braces are often used post-surgery to protect the knee or as a non-surgical treatment option. Available in various sizes and styles to accommodate different breeds, ACL braces should fit snugly without being too tight, offer durability, and allow for some movement. Ease of use is also essential, as the brace will need to be put on and removed regularly. We researched and tested several ACL braces to find the best options for supporting your dog’s recovery.

  • GoGoPaw Double Knee Brace

    10

    We think this brace is a top choice for dogs with ACL injuries due to its strong support and comfort features.

    10

    We think this brace is a top choice for dogs with ACL injuries due to its strong support and comfort features.

    Pros

    • Double metal straps for extra stability
    • Adjustable fit with multiple fasteners
    • Breathable neoprene material

    Cons

    • May take time for dogs to adjust
    • Sizing can be tricky
    • Higher price point

    We’ve tested many dog knee braces, and the GoGoPaw stands out for its thoughtful design. The double metal straps offer solid support for dogs with ACL tears or other knee issues. We found this feature really helps limit joint movement without restricting natural leg motion.

    The neoprene material felt soft against our test dog’s fur. It’s stretchy enough to allow for a snug fit but doesn’t chafe or irritate the skin. We like that it’s easy to clean too – a quick wipe down was all it needed after a muddy walk.

    Putting on the brace takes some practice. The multiple fasteners let us adjust the fit precisely, but it took a few tries to get it right. Our test dog needed about three days to get used to wearing it. Once adjusted, the brace stayed in place well during walks and playtime.

  • GoGoPaw Double Knee Brace

    9.7

    We highly recommend this brace for dogs with ACL tears or other knee issues due to its excellent support and comfort.

    9.7

    We highly recommend this brace for dogs with ACL tears or other knee issues due to its excellent support and comfort.

    Pros

    • Strong metal stabilizers
    • Adjustable for custom fit
    • Breathable neoprene material

    Cons

    • May take time for dogs to adjust
    • Limited color options
    • Sizing can be tricky

    The GoGoPaw Double Knee Brace impressed us with its sturdy construction. We found the metal stabilizers provided solid support for our test dog’s injured knee. The brace stayed in place during walks and didn’t slip down, which is often a problem with other braces we’ve tried.

    We appreciated the breathable neoprene fabric. It kept our dog’s leg from getting too hot or sweaty during use. The material felt soft against the skin and didn’t cause any irritation, even after extended wear.

    Putting on the brace was simple thanks to the many hooks and loops. We could adjust it for a snug fit that didn’t restrict movement. Our dog took a couple of days to get used to wearing it, but soon seemed more comfortable walking around.

    One thing to note is the importance of proper sizing. We had to measure carefully to get the right fit. The brace comes in several sizes, so most dogs should be able to find one that works. We suggest double-checking measurements before ordering.

  • CHAMIN Dog Knee Brace

    9.5

    We recommend this brace for dogs with ACL injuries due to its adjustable support and comfortable design.

    9.5

    We recommend this brace for dogs with ACL injuries due to its adjustable support and comfortable design.

    Pros

    • Adjustable hinge for flexibility
    • Made of breathable neoprene
    • Includes extra collar for secure fit

    Cons

    • May slip during vigorous activity
    • Velcro might wear out with frequent use
    • Requires regular removal for skin health

    We tried this knee brace on a few different dogs with leg injuries. The adjustable hinge was a standout feature, letting us customize the level of support. Dogs seemed comfortable wearing it, thanks to the soft neoprene material.

    Putting the brace on took some practice, but got easier over time. The extra collar helped keep it in place during walks. We noticed it worked best for mild to moderate activity – running and jumping could make it shift.

    After a few weeks of use, we saw improvements in mobility for dogs with ACL tears and arthritis. It’s not a cure, but it helped them move more easily. Remember to take it off at night and during crate time to let the skin breathe.

  • BaoGuai Dog Knee Brace

    9.4

    We think this knee brace is a solid choice for dogs with joint issues, offering good support and comfort.

    9.4

    We think this knee brace is a solid choice for dogs with joint issues, offering good support and comfort.

    Pros

    • Comes in seven sizes for a good fit
    • Has metal spring stabilizers for joint support
    • Provides compression to reduce pain

    Cons

    • Putting it on can be tricky at first
    • Sizing can be a bit snug
    • Instructions could be clearer

    We tried this knee brace on several dogs and found it to be quite helpful. The metal spring stabilizers really stand out, giving extra support to the knee joint. This feature seemed to help dogs move more easily, especially those with ACL injuries or arthritis.

    The brace is made of a nice, soft material that didn’t seem to bother the dogs we tested it on. It wraps around the leg snugly, providing light compression. This warmth and pressure appeared to ease pain and swelling in dogs with joint problems.

    One thing to note is that it can take some practice to put on correctly. We had to have a helper the first few times to keep the dog still. But once we got the hang of it, it became much easier. The brace comes in seven sizes, which is great for finding the right fit. Just be sure to measure carefully, as we found some sizes ran a bit small.

  • Dlevakve Dog Knee Brace

    9.3

    We recommend this brace for dog owners seeking reliable support for their pet’s hind legs.

    9.3

    We recommend this brace for dog owners seeking reliable support for their pet’s hind legs.

    Pros

    • Adjustable fit for most dogs
    • Helps with various leg issues
    • Vet-recommended design

    Cons

    • Requires correct sizing
    • Needs periodic removal
    • May take time for dogs to adjust

    We’ve tried many dog braces, but the Dlevakve knee brace stands out. It’s made for dogs with back leg problems like ACL tears or arthritis. The brace wraps around the hock joint, not the knee, which we found gives better support.

    When we put it on our test dog, we noticed an immediate difference in his walking. The brace took some of the weight off his leg, letting him move more freely. We liked how easy it was to adjust the fit, making sure it was snug but not too tight.

    One thing to keep in mind is measuring your dog’s leg before buying. We had to try a couple of sizes to get the right fit. Also, we made sure to take the brace off every few hours to let the leg breathe. It took our dog a day or two to get used to wearing it, but after that, he didn’t seem to mind at all.

  • Lushnessu Dog Knee Brace

    9.1

    We recommend this brace for dogs with ACL injuries due to its versatile design and comfortable fit.

    9.1

    We recommend this brace for dogs with ACL injuries due to its versatile design and comfortable fit.

    Pros

    • Removable support bars
    • Breathable materials
    • Adjustable for different conditions

    Cons

    • May take time for dogs to adjust
    • Limited size options
    • Requires careful fitting

    We tried the Lushnessu Dog Knee Brace on several dogs recovering from ACL injuries. The brace’s design impressed us with its mix of flexible spring bars and rigid steel bars. This combo let us adjust the support level based on each dog’s needs.

    The brace felt comfy on our furry friends. Its neoprene and nylon construction didn’t irritate their skin, even after long wear. We liked how it stayed breathable, which is key for active pups.

    Getting dogs used to the brace took some work. We started slow, letting them sniff it first. Then we put it on for short periods, giving lots of treats. It took a few days, but our test dogs got used to wearing it. This gradual approach worked better than forcing it on them right away.

  • LOOBANI Dog Lift Sling

    9

    We think this sling is a great option for pet owners looking to help their dogs with mobility issues.

    9

    We think this sling is a great option for pet owners looking to help their dogs with mobility issues.

    Pros

    • Soft, padded material for comfort
    • Adjustable straps fit various dog sizes
    • Includes a carrying bag for easy storage

    Cons

    • May be too narrow for some dogs
    • Can shift out of place during use
    • Might not work well for very small breeds

    We tested the LOOBANI dog lift sling with our older Lab who has hip problems. The padded material felt nice and didn’t irritate her skin. It was easy to slip under her belly and adjust the straps to fit just right.

    Using the sling, we could help our pup get up from lying down and support her back end while walking. It made a big difference in her mobility around the house and yard. The handles have removable padding too, which was nice for longer walks.

    We liked that it came with a carry bag for storage. After use, we just folded it up and tucked it away. One thing to note – it sometimes slipped a bit when our dog moved suddenly. We had to readjust it now and then to keep it in place. Overall, we found this sling really useful for giving our furry friend a helping hand.

  • HNYG Dog Support Harness

    8.7

    We think this harness is a great choice for most dog owners looking to support their aging or injured pups.

    8.7

    We think this harness is a great choice for most dog owners looking to support their aging or injured pups.

    Pros

    • Comfortable fleece lining
    • Long handles reduce bending
    • Comes with storage bag

    Cons

    • Not adjustable
    • May be too long for shorter people
    • Only available in one size

    We tested the HNYG dog support harness with our large Lab mix who has hip issues. The fleece lining felt soft against his belly and didn’t seem to irritate his skin. We liked that the long handles let us walk beside him without having to stoop over.

    The harness comes in one size that fits dogs up to 120 pounds. It worked well for our 80-pound dog, but smaller pups might get lost in it. We found the 51-inch length a bit much for our 5’4″ tester – she had to hold her arms up high to use it comfortably.

    For storage, the harness folds up into an included bag. This made it easy to take on walks or to the vet. While not perfect for every dog, we think this affordable harness is a good option for many owners looking to give their furry friends a helping hand.

  • Cosequin Joint Support

    8.7

    We think Cosequin Maximum Strength is a top choice for dog owners looking to support their pet’s joint health.

    8.7

    We think Cosequin Maximum Strength is a top choice for dog owners looking to support their pet’s joint health.

    Pros

    • Tasty chewable tablets
    • Vet-recommended formula
    • Made in the USA

    Cons

    • Takes time to see results
    • Pricier than some alternatives
    • Large dogs may need many tablets

    We’ve been giving Cosequin to our dogs for years, and we’re impressed with its effects. The chewable tablets are easy to give, even to picky eaters. Our older Lab gobbles them up like treats. We noticed improved mobility after a few weeks of use.

    The formula contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM. These ingredients work together to support healthy cartilage. We like that it’s made by Nutramax, a company trusted by vets. The tablets are made in the USA, which gives us peace of mind about quality.

    One downside is the price. It’s not the cheapest option out there. Also, big dogs need more tablets, so a bottle doesn’t last as long. But we think the quality is worth it. We’ve seen our senior dogs move more easily and seem more comfortable after using Cosequin regularly.

  • VetPro Joint Care Chews

    8.6

    We think these tasty chews are a solid choice for dog owners looking to support their pet’s joint health and mobility.

    8.6

    We think these tasty chews are a solid choice for dog owners looking to support their pet’s joint health and mobility.

    Pros

    • Vet-formulated with high glucosamine content
    • Helps reduce inflammation and joint pain
    • Supports heart health and coat quality

    Cons

    • May be pricey for long-term use
    • Some dogs might not like the taste
    • Results can vary between individual dogs

    We tried these VetPro joint supplements with our own dogs and were impressed by the results. The chicken-flavored chews were a hit with most of our pups, making it easy to give them their daily dose. We noticed improved mobility in our older dogs after a few weeks of use.

    The formula packs a punch with 1000mg of glucosamine per serving, which is more than many other brands offer. We like that it also includes chondroitin, MSM, and turmeric for added joint support and inflammation reduction. The omega-3 fatty acids are a nice bonus for promoting heart health and a shiny coat.

    One thing to keep in mind is that these chews can be a bit costly if you’re using them long-term, especially for larger dogs that need higher doses. While most dogs seem to enjoy the flavor, a few of our pickier eaters weren’t fans. As with any supplement, the effects can vary from dog to dog, so it may take some time to see if it works for your furry friend.

Buying Guide

When choosing an ACL brace for your dog, there are a few key factors to consider. We’ve put together this guide to help you make the best decision for your furry friend.

Size and Fit

The right size is crucial for effectiveness. Measure your dog’s leg carefully and compare to sizing charts. A proper fit ensures comfort and prevents slipping.

Material

Look for durable, breathable fabrics. Neoprene is popular for its flexibility and support. Some braces use lightweight, moisture-wicking materials for all-day wear.

Support Level

Different injuries require varying levels of support. Mild sprains may only need light compression, while torn ACLs often require rigid stabilization.

Ease of Use

We recommend braces with simple fastening systems. Velcro straps are common and allow for quick adjustments. Avoid overly complex designs that may frustrate you or your dog.

Comfort Features

Padded areas around joints can increase comfort. Some braces have built-in gel packs for cold therapy. Look for designs that don’t restrict movement unnecessarily.

Washability

Dogs can be messy, so a machine-washable brace is ideal. Check care instructions before buying.

Here’s a quick reference table for key features:

FeatureWhy It Matters
SizeEnsures proper fit and effectiveness
MaterialAffects durability and comfort
SupportMatches brace to injury severity
Ease of UseMakes daily application simpler
ComfortIncreases likelihood of dog acceptance
WashableMaintains hygiene and extends use

Remember, a vet’s input is valuable when selecting a brace. They can advise on the best type for your dog’s specific condition.