The thought of a dog with only three legs is rather traumatic to most of us.  However, most animals seem to be even more resilient than humans, especially in the case of a limb being amputated.  Animals are much more resilient and adaptable to such conditions than us humans. In about a week a dog that’s had an amputation can be mentally and emotionally every bit as good as before. 

 Amputee dogs tend to forget that they only have three legs, and  most find navigating downstairs tricky.  Using non-slip mats around the house at strategic places can make things a little easier, and can help to avoid some accidents. 

Walking your triped dog on a lead will need some thought on your part.  In fact a full harness will offer more support than a standard collar.  If you must use a collar please make it a wide one as a certain amount of pulling will take place as your dog uses it to take some weight in some circumstances. Your dog will find it easier to walk faster rather than slower.  Sudden changes of direction are difficult without all four legs, and can result in a fall.  Therefore if your dog pulls on the lead you should avoid the training technique used by some trainers of making a 180 degree turn.  Also remember that the weight that should be supported by the missing leg is now transferred to the remaining three.  Therefore expect your dog to tire more easily and realise that there is extra weight and strain on the other legs, joints etc.   You must endeavour therefore to keep the weight of your pet under control.  To this end swimming is a first class exercise. It is also an excellent therapy for strengthening the remaining leg muscles. It’s always a good idea to invest in a dog life jacket, even for dogs that have got all four legs, and for the three-legged canine it will provide added buoyancy and help combat fatigue. 

In general triped dogs can be as happy and as well balanced as other dogs.  It is possible however to find that other over-lively dogs may be too much.  If this is the case you should try to protect your dog from these encounters as much as possible.  If he is left to deal with these encounters entirely alone it may cause anxiety and even an aggressive attitude.

Three-Legged Dog: Poems