One of the most common orthopedic problems in dogs is a ruptured cruciate ligament of the knee. The cruciate ligaments are designed to keep the knee joint stable and keep the femur and the tibia from sliding back and forth. When a dog suddenly starts running or jumping with great thrust, this small ligament in the knee may rupture and the knee joint becomes suddenly painful. If this problem is not diagnosed and corrected surgically, more deterioration and arthritis will develop in the joint. Surgery on the knee is designed to make the joint stable and prevent further arthritis in the knee. Otherwise, the femur and the tibia will slide back and forth in the knee joint which is called "drawers motion". Signs of a possible rupture or tear of the ACL or cruciate ligament are a sudden lameness in the hind leg or holding the hind leg up gingerly and not putting full weight upon the leg. Examination and radiographs are performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Article from Village Animal Clinic

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DOGS GET FOOTBALL TYPE INJURIES