The Tripawd Life: What To Expect When You Adopt A 3-Legged Dog

Are you planning to adopt a three-legged dog - or anxious about your dog’s first day home after amputation? 

Learn how three-legged dogs learn to adapt, what hurdles may lie ahead, and what you can do to help your pup transition to life on three legs.
 

How Common Are Three-Legged Dogs?

You may have noticed that three-legged dogs are becoming less of a rarity. While social media has brought on much-needed awareness - and well-deserved adoration - it’s not the only reason we’re seeing tripedal pups more often.

In the past, dogs affected by cancer or a traumatic limb injury were more likely to face euthanasia. Puppies born with limb differences were more likely to be euthanized at birth rather than given a chance at adoption. Now, more vets and pet parents realize that recovery after life-saving amputation is possible, and dogs can live a long, happy, relatively normal life after the loss of a limb.

Advancements in veterinary medicine, resources like online support groups for tripawd pet parents, and tools like physical therapy and prosthetics have all given a second chance to dogs who have lost a leg.

Three-legged dogs and their pet parents can even get to know their community by going to meet-ups like the annual Duboce Park Three-Legged Dog Picnic in San Francisco, which hosts over 50 dogs and has been growing each year since the first picnic in 2011.
 

Preventing Injuries in Dogs with Three Legs

If your dog has recently or will soon lose a leg after amputation surgery, you’ll likely be surprised at how quickly your dog adapts. In fact, many are excited to return to their usual level of activity soon after surgery, even if it puts them at risk for injury and strain to their remaining limbs.

Recovery is somewhat different depending on whether your dog has lost a front limb or a hind limb. Their remaining front or hind limb will shift towards the center of their body to compensate. 

Usually, a dog bears about 60% of their body weight towards the front of their body. That means a dog that loses their front limb will now rest more than half of their body weight on the remaining front paw. Those who lose a hind limb will be under slightly less strain, relying on their remaining hind limb to carry about 40% of their weight. 

Keep your dog on the slim side of a healthy body weight to reduce strain on their remaining joints. If your dog is overweight or gains weight easily, consider switching to a weight management dog food.

Due to added strain, dogs with three legs become more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis in their remaining limbs. Ask your veterinarian about starting your dog on a joint support supplement as soon as possible. There’s no need to wait until your dog shows symptoms of joint issues to start a joint supplement.

Adapting to moving around with three legs requires core strength and balance. Your dog may need your support, especially when it comes to climbing and descending stairs and furniture. A supportive sling may be invaluable to helping your dog get around, especially when it comes to larger dogs that may be too heavy to carry. 

You should work with a canine physiotherapist through a physical therapy program to help your dog develop these essential skills. Core strength and balance can help reduce falls and injuries and boost your dog’s confidence in their ability to get around and become independent again.
 

Will My Dog Need A Prosthetic?

For the majority of three-legged dogs, a prosthetic limb is not necessary. Prosthetics work best for those with a remaining partial limb stump. Before surgery, ask your dog’s veterinary surgeon if a partial amputation is possible or advisable. 

Often, a complete amputation is recommended so the dog will adapt to relying on their remaining limbs rather than attempting to use a partial limb that can no longer support them.

 A wheelchair is another option when it comes to dogs that need support. Wheelchairs for dogs can be custom-designed to fit either their front or hind end. Adapting to using a prosthetic or wheelchair can be more complicated and timely than learning to rely on remaining limbs.
 

Preparing For Your Tripawd’s First Day Home

Whether your dog has been a tripawd at birth or has recently lost a leg, creating an accessible home environment is key to helping them feel comfortable, confident, and independent as soon as possible.

Climbing and descending stairs and furniture can be tricky. Even three-legged dogs that have become confident in their mobility can still occasionally lose their balance. Ramps and steps can significantly reduce your dog’s risk of injury, especially when jumping out of a car or climbing down from furniture. 

Slippery wood or tile floors can be a challenge for some tripawds. Consider using area rugs or runners with nonslip backing to prevent your dog from losing their footing.

Your dog might have a harder time reaching down to eat or drink from bowls set on the floor. An elevated feeder is essential for many three-legged pets.

Your dog’s specific support needs will vary. Seek a referral to a canine physiotherapist and start physical therapy right away, and follow their recommendations for helping your dog adapt and avoid injury. Other than that, expect the unexpected. 

Once your dog is ready to move around again, they’re likely to need little help beyond the occasional boost onto the couch - and a scratch behind the ear for an itch they can no longer reach.