If your active or large breed dog has torn their cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL), there’s a good chance your veterinarian will recommend TPLO surgery. At BluePearl Town 'N' Country, our surgeons perform this procedure regularly to help pets restore their quality of life.

A German shepherd dog has one ear perked as they are prepared by a smiling Associate to get a CT scan.

Why TPLO works well for large, active dogs.

Unlike other techniques, TPLO doesn’t rely on replacing or mimicking the torn ligament. Instead, it reshapes the tibia (shin bone) to change the mechanics of the knee. That means:

  • Less strain on artificial materials
  • Stronger long-term outcomes
  • Better stability during running and play
  • Lower risk of implant failure in large dogs
  • Predictable recovery with fewer complications

This makes TPLO ideal for dogs who weigh over 40 pounds or who are very physically active.

What breeds commonly receive TPLO.

We often recommend TPLO for:

  • Labrador retrievers
  • Golden retrievers
  • German shepherds
  • Pit bulls and bully breeds
  • Standard poodles
  • Mixed breeds with large frames
  • Young, athletic dogs of all sizes

Some small dogs may also be candidates depending on activity level and knee anatomy.

Why choose BluePearl Town 'N' Country for TPLO?

Our surgery team offers:

  • Board-certified or residency-trained surgeons
  • Pre-op diagnostics and full surgical planning
  • Advanced anesthesia and monitoring
  • On-site post-op care and pain control
  • Recheck coordination with your family veterinarian

We’ve helped thousands of dogs return to active lives after TPLO.

Understanding TPLO Surgery for Your Dog at BluePearl Town 'N' Country — FAQ.

TPLO, or tibial plateau leveling osteotomy, is a surgical technique that is especially beneficial for large and active dogs with a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL). Unlike other methods that attempt to replace or mimic the torn ligament, TPLO reshapes the tibia (shin bone) to alter the knee's mechanics. This approach reduces the strain on artificial materials, leading to stronger long-term outcomes and better stability during running and play. Additionally, it lowers the risk of implant failure in large dogs and offers a predictable recovery with fewer complications. These factors make TPLO an ideal choice for dogs weighing over 40 pounds or those that are very physically active.

At BluePearl Town 'N' Country, we frequently recommend TPLO surgery for breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Pit Bulls and bully breeds, Standard Poodles, and mixed breeds with large frames. Young, athletic dogs of all sizes may also be candidates for TPLO, depending on their activity level and knee anatomy. In some cases, even small dogs may benefit from this procedure if their specific conditions warrant it.

Choosing BluePearl Town 'N' Country for your dog's TPLO surgery ensures access to a highly skilled surgical team. Our team includes board-certified or residency-trained surgeons who provide comprehensive pre-operative diagnostics and full surgical planning. We utilize advanced anesthesia and monitoring techniques to ensure your pet's safety and comfort. Post-operative care and pain control are managed on-site, and we coordinate rechecks with your family veterinarian to ensure seamless continuity of care. With a proven track record of helping thousands of dogs return to active lives after TPLO, BluePearl is committed to restoring your pet's quality of life.

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