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Recovery Timeline for Dogs After FHO Surgery

Recovery Timeline for Dogs After FHO Surgery

Femoral Head Ostectomy

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Owners

Week-by-week recovery timeline for dogs after FHO surgery. Learn healing stages, rehab tips, and when your dog can return to normal activity

By 

Sustainable Vet Group

Updated on

July 28, 2025

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Recovery Timeline for Dogs After FHO Surgery

What to Expect After FHO Surgery

Recovery after femoral head ostectomy (FHO) surgery is a gradual process. The surgery removes the ball of the hip joint, so your dog needs time to build a new fibrous joint and regain muscle strength. Healing does not happen overnight, and pushing too fast can lead to setbacks. That’s why understanding the recovery timeline is so important.

This guide will help you know what’s normal at each stage—from the first few days after surgery to long-term care. You’ll learn what to expect, what to do at home, and when to get help. Each dog heals at their own pace, but following this timeline gives you a clear picture of the journey ahead.

With patience, the right therapy, and your vet’s guidance, most dogs return to a happy, active life without pain. Recovery takes time—but every step counts.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

FHO recovery usually takes 8 to 12 weeks. Here's what to expect during each stage of your dog’s healing journey.

Week 0–2: Healing Begins

The first two weeks after surgery are all about healing and protecting the surgical site. Your dog should rest in a crate or small room to prevent sudden movements. Take your dog out only for short potty walks, lasting 5 to 10 minutes, three times a day. During the first 72 hours, apply ice packs on the hip to reduce swelling. After that, switch to warm compresses to promote circulation.

You can start gentle passive range of motion (PROM) exercises if your dog allows it. Light massage and simple hip stretches may also help relieve tension. Be very careful during this time. Avoid stairs, running, jumping, or any off-leash activity. This period builds a safe foundation for recovery.

  • Crate rest and restricted activity
  • Short potty breaks with leash
  • Ice therapy for 3 days, then warm compress
  • Gentle PROM and massage if tolerated
  • No stairs or off-leash movement

This phase is about comfort, calm, and preventing complications.

Week 2–3: Early Mobility Returns

By the third week, many dogs begin to show signs of improvement. You may notice your dog toe-touching with the operated leg or starting to bear light weight. Leash walks can now extend to 10 to 15 minutes, still done multiple times a day. This light activity supports early muscle engagement and helps prevent stiffness.

At this stage, you can introduce simple home exercises like sit-to-stand routines or balance work using soft mats. If the incision has fully healed and your vet agrees, hydrotherapy can also begin. Water-based rehab helps your dog move without putting pressure on the joint. Continue PROM and massage to keep the joint flexible and reduce soreness.

  • Increase leash walks to 10–15 minutes
  • Start sit-to-stand or gentle balance drills
  • Toe-touching or early leg use may begin
  • Hydrotherapy if incision is healed
  • Keep up PROM and massage

These small steps lead to bigger gains in the coming weeks.

Week 3–6: Strength Building Phase

Your dog is now ready to build real strength. Leash walks should be increased by 5 to 10 minutes each week, depending on your dog’s comfort and energy levels. Controlled activities like walking up hills, figure-8 drills, and stair climbing can now be included. These help improve coordination and muscle tone.

Strength-focused exercises like sit-to-stand repetitions, gentle “dancing” (where your dog stands on back legs), and weight-shifting drills on balance cushions become more useful. Some limping may still occur, but regular use of the leg should improve steadily. Allow moderate play under supervision, but watch closely for signs of fatigue or discomfort.

  • Extend walks by 5–10 minutes weekly
  • Add hill walks and stair use
  • Begin sit-to-stand, weight shifts, and dancing
  • Limping may still be present but improving
  • Short, supervised play allowed

This is the most active and rewarding part of recovery if done right.

Week 6–8: Stability and Confidence

In weeks 6 to 8, your dog should start moving more naturally and with greater confidence. Leash walks can go up to 30 to 40 minutes, once or twice a day. Swimming and hydrotherapy should continue if possible, as they are excellent for building endurance without joint strain.

You may begin short jogs or light trotting if your vet approves. Activities like gentle fetch games and supervised stair climbing are also appropriate now. Keep sessions short and avoid sharp turns or jumps. Around the 6-week mark, a follow-up vet exam is recommended to confirm healing progress and adjust the rehab plan.

  • Walks up to 30–40 minutes
  • Add short jogs or gentle fetch
  • Controlled stair use continues
  • Rehab and swimming stay part of routine
  • Vet recheck to assess joint recovery

This phase helps transition your dog back to everyday movement.

Week 9–12: Near Full Recovery

By now, most dogs show clear progress. Limping should be minimal or gone altogether. Jogging, fast-paced walking, and light play become part of your dog’s daily routine. You may slowly reintroduce off-leash activity, but only in safe, enclosed areas where the dog won’t sprint or twist suddenly.

Energy levels will vary, so always monitor for signs of soreness or fatigue after active play. Continue rehab activities a few times a week to keep muscles strong. Your dog may still prefer to rest more after longer outings, and that’s normal at this stage of healing.

  • Jogging and active walks become routine
  • Off-leash time allowed in safe areas
  • Limping should be almost gone
  • Moderate play and outdoor time resume
  • Watch for post-exercise fatigue

Your dog is close to full function, but slow pacing still matters.

3–6 Months: Long-Term Recovery Outcomes

By three to six months, your dog should be fully adjusted to the new fibrous joint formed after surgery. Most dogs return to their normal lives, including walks, light runs, and even agility or hiking activities. However, some dogs may show mild stiffness after resting, especially in colder weather or after long periods of activity.

Ongoing fitness is key. Swimming, leash walks, and core-strengthening exercises should stay in the routine. Reintroduce higher-impact activities like hiking or jumping only if your dog is strong and shows no signs of limping. A final check-in with your vet helps confirm the success of the recovery.

  • Long walks, play, and hikes become normal
  • Mild stiffness after rest is possible
  • Maintain weekly fitness to avoid setbacks
  • Gradually return to pre-surgery activity
  • Vet follow-up to confirm full recovery

This phase ensures your dog enjoys lasting mobility and comfort.

What Influences the Recovery Speed?

Not all dogs heal at the same pace. These factors can speed up or slow down healing.

Several things affect how quickly your dog recovers after FHO surgery. Age and general health play a big role. Puppies and young adult dogs usually heal faster because their bodies are still growing and flexible. Older dogs, especially those with arthritis or other health issues, may need more time and support.

Body weight also matters. Overweight dogs tend to recover slower because their joints carry more pressure, making movement harder. Breed and size can influence healing too. Smaller dogs often adapt faster to the fibrous joint formed after surgery, while larger breeds may need more therapy to gain full strength.

  • Older age or arthritis can delay recovery
  • Overweight dogs put more strain on healing joints
  • Large breeds may need longer therapy
  • Active, healthy dogs bounce back more easily
  • Regular rehab and vet checkups speed up healing

Most importantly, owner consistency with physical therapy and home care often makes the biggest difference in how well your dog recovers.

Signs of Delayed Healing (When to Call the Vet)

It’s important to know what signs may suggest delayed healing or a complication after FHO surgery. If your dog is still not putting any weight on the leg by week 3, this may mean they need more pain control or a therapy adjustment. While a mild limp is normal early on, a strong limp that lasts beyond week 8 is not expected.

Swelling, heat, or pain near the surgery site could signal infection or inflammation. Behavior changes like poor appetite, low energy, or disrupted sleep may also be signs of discomfort. Most concerning is any sign of wound reopening or pus discharge, which needs quick vet attention.

  • Non-weight bearing beyond week 3
  • Severe limp remains after week 8
  • Swelling or redness around the incision
  • Poor appetite or increased restlessness
  • Open wound or signs of infection

If you notice any of these problems, contact your vet right away. Early action can prevent bigger issues and get your dog back on track.

Tips to Support a Smooth Recovery

Recovery after FHO surgery takes daily effort. Small actions at home can make a big difference. Use tools and habits that make the process smoother for both you and your dog. A well-prepared home, good nutrition, and careful tracking help speed up healing while avoiding stress or injury.

Weekly Checklist for Pet Owners

A simple weekly checklist can keep recovery on track. Write down daily goals such as how long your dog walked, whether the limp improved, and which exercises were done. Set reminders for medication times and upcoming vet appointments. You can also take short videos each week to track progress visually.

  • Note leash walk duration and limp level
  • Track daily therapy exercises
  • Set alerts for medications and checkups
  • Use a recovery journal or app

Having a record of what works (or what doesn’t) helps your vet make better rehab decisions and gives you peace of mind during the process.

Nutrition and Weight Management

Proper nutrition supports healing from the inside out. During the early rest phase, your dog will burn fewer calories. To prevent weight gain, reduce food portions by 10 to 15 percent unless your vet advises otherwise. Overweight dogs may take longer to regain mobility.

Joint-support supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and support long-term hip function. Make sure your dog stays hydrated, especially if they’re taking medications. Use healthy treats or enrichment chews to keep their mind busy during crate time.

  • Cut daily food intake by 10–15% during rest
  • Consider vet-recommended joint supplements
  • Provide clean water at all times
  • Offer light snacks or puzzles for engagement

Balanced nutrition reduces pressure on healing joints and improves overall recovery.

Home Setup for Safe Movement

Your home environment can either help or hinder your dog’s recovery. Create a space that limits risk while supporting safe movement. Add non-slip rugs, yoga mats, or foam tiles to areas where your dog walks or rests. This prevents slipping, which could harm the healing hip.

Block access to stairs or jumping surfaces with baby gates. If your dog is used to climbing on furniture, install pet ramps or stairs to help them move safely without jumping. Keep their crate or rest area in a calm spot away from loud noises or other pets.

  • Place rugs or mats to create a safe walking path
  • Use gates to prevent stair use
  • Install ramps for couch or bed access
  • Keep rest area quiet and easy to supervise

A safe setup gives your dog the freedom to move without risking re-injury.

Comparing FHO Recovery to Other Surgeries

Compared to more complex orthopedic procedures, FHO recovery is often shorter, less expensive, and less invasive. Dogs do not receive a metal implant, so there’s no risk of implant failure. Instead, they rely on building a strong fibrous joint. While total hip replacement may offer a more “natural” joint function, it also carries higher risks and longer healing.

FHO works especially well for small to medium-sized dogs. Many regain full leg use and return to active lifestyles. Some dogs may keep a mild limp or favor the leg when tired, but it usually doesn’t affect quality of life. With proper rehab, most dogs are pain-free and energetic again.

This surgery gives great results with the right care and patience, especially for dogs that don’t need high-impact activities like working or sporting dogs. It remains one of the most effective surgeries for hip problems in everyday pets.

FAQs About FHO Recovery Timeline

How long does it take for a dog to fully recover from FHO surgery?

Most dogs recover within 8 to 12 weeks after FHO surgery. Small breeds may heal faster, while larger or older dogs may take more time. Full function, including running or jumping, often returns by 3 to 6 months. A structured rehab plan with vet guidance helps ensure long-term success.

When will my dog start using the leg after FHO?

Some dogs begin toe-touching within the first 1 to 2 weeks. Most start partial weight bearing by week 3. Regular short walks, passive exercises, and pain control support early leg use. If your dog isn’t using the leg by week 3, consult your vet to check for discomfort or complications.

Is it normal for my dog to limp weeks after FHO surgery?

Yes, a limp is normal in the early stages of recovery. It usually gets better by week 6 to 8. If the limp remains severe beyond week 8 or returns after activity, a vet check is needed. Ongoing rehab can help reduce long-term limping in most cases.

Can my dog go off-leash after FHO recovery?

Off-leash activity should wait until your dog walks and trots without limping. This usually happens around weeks 9 to 12. Start in a safe, enclosed area and monitor for fatigue. Sudden twisting or high-impact play too early can slow healing or cause reinjury.

What if my dog doesn’t follow the expected FHO recovery timeline?

Every dog heals at a different pace. Delays can happen due to age, weight, pain control, or missed rehab. If progress stalls for more than a week or signs of pain return, contact your vet. They may adjust the therapy plan or look for underlying issues affecting healing.

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