Problems with the Achilles tendon and calcaneus in dogs

When we walk, humans tend to place their weight evenly across their feet, using toes for balance and heels for support. However, dogs carry most of their weight on their toes, especially noticeable in the rear legs. Their heel bone, called the calcaneus, often appears to stick out from the back of the leg and not touch the ground when standing or walking slowly.

The calcaneus, or heel bone, is a small but vital structure that supports a large part of your dog's weight, balancing and stabilising their movement. When injured, this bone can cause a pronounced limp and difficulty in movement.

This article explores the role of the calcaneus and the vital Achilles tendon attached to it, along with common problems and injuries your dog might experience. We aim to help you recognise signs early and seek appropriate care.

Understanding Your Dog's Hind Limb Anatomy

If your dog is relaxed or asleep, gently feel the bones and tendons in their rear legs. Starting from the ground up, you'll find the hock joint where the foot connects to the shin. The shin contains two bones: the tibia and fibula. Connecting these to the foot are the talus at the front and the calcaneus at the back.

The calcaneus creates the bony point you can feel at the back of your dog's heel. While you can't usually feel this in humans as we stand on our calcaneus, it's quite noticeable in dogs, horses, and cats since they walk differently to us.

The Calcaneus Bone and Achilles Tendon Function

Ligaments hold joints and bones stable, while tendons enable movement by connecting muscles to bones. Your dog's hock joint moves due to the action of the Achilles tendon, also known as the calcaneal tendon, which connects several muscles to the calcaneus. This tendon allows your dog to flex their hocks to walk normally and keeps their heel elevated when moving.

The Achilles tendon is made up of five separate tendons, each controlling movement of individual toes and the heel, showcasing the complex design that enables your dog’s agility.

Common Problems Affecting the Calcaneus and Achilles Tendon

Active and lively dogs frequently put stress on their leg tendons, which can lead to problems with the Achilles tendon. These injuries generally fall into two categories: traumatic injuries from strains, tears, or accidents, and degenerative injuries that develop over time, sometimes due to genetics.

Traumatic injuries are often caused by vigorous exercise like jumping or running, particularly on hard surfaces such as concrete or gravel. Large dog breeds are especially vulnerable due to their size and weight increasing pressure on their tendons and bones.

Recognising Signs of Achilles Tendon or Calcaneus Injuries

Limping on a rear leg is a common indicator of Achilles tendon strain or calcaneus damage. You might notice swelling around the hock, uneven posture in the hock, or the heel appearing lower than usual. If one of the five tendons tears, the hock could look irregular or drop closer to the ground.

In severe cases where all Achilles tendons rupture, your dog’s hock may hang low, causing a flat-footed limp and significant discomfort. These cases often require urgent veterinary treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

A vet can diagnose these injuries through physical examination and imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound. Early intervention is crucial to preserve your dog’s mobility and reduce pain. Treatments range from rest and anti-inflammatory medication to surgery in more severe tendon ruptures.

Keeping your dog on soft, non-abrasive surfaces during exercise and avoiding excessive jumping can help prevent injury. Maintaining a healthy weight and gradual increase in activity also supports tendon health.

Long-Term Care and Prevention

Regular veterinary check-ups can catch early signs of degeneration or inflammation in the Achilles tendon. For predisposed breeds, monitoring exercise intensity and providing balanced nutrition is important to minimise risk.

Recovery from Achilles tendon or calcaneus injury requires patience and adherence to veterinary advice, including restricted movement and gradual rehabilitation exercises.

Common Queries About Achilles Tendon Injuries in Dogs

How common are Achilles tendon injuries in dogs?

Quick Answer: Achilles tendon problems are relatively common in active, large-breed dogs but can affect any dog exposed to trauma or repetitive stress.

Injuries range from mild strains to complete ruptures. Large active breeds like Labradors, Dobermans, and German Shepherds appear more prone. Prompt treatment leads to better recovery outcomes.

Can these injuries heal without surgery?

Quick Answer: Mild strains may improve with rest and medication, but complete ruptures often require surgery for full recovery.

Your vet will determine the appropriate treatment based on injury severity through clinical exams and imaging. Early veterinary attention improves prognosis and reduces complications.

Are certain dog breeds more at risk?

Quick Answer: Yes, large breeds like Labradors, Dobermans, English Setters, and German Shepherds have a higher risk due to size, activity level, and sometimes genetic factors.

Breed predisposition combined with lifestyle factors elevates risk. Responsible breeding and appropriate exercise management help reduce occurrence.

Where can I find reputable breeders for active breeds prone to Achilles issues?

For those interested in active medium to large dog breeds such as the Labrador Retriever puppies, choosing responsible breeders is vital. Responsible breeders prioritise health screening, including assessments of joint and tendon conditions, to lessen inherited risks. Always verify breeder credentials and ask about health testing when finding a puppy.

Conclusion

Issues with the Achilles tendon and calcaneus in dogs can cause significant discomfort and mobility problems, especially in active or large breeds. Early recognition and timely veterinary treatment are key to successful recovery.

Preventive strategies such as cautious exercise on soft surfaces, weight control, and regular health checks help protect your dog's tendons. Stay observant for early signs and seek professional advice promptly to give your dog the best chance of regaining full mobility and comfort.