Because the CCL cannot heal on its own, the knee joint will remain unstable without surgery. The instability results in pain, inflammation, arthritis, and possible meniscal damage. The associated discomfort results in more severe lameness and subsequent muscle atrophy.

An early, mild form of the injury may be managed with activity restriction, pain medication, and physical rehabilitation. Unfortunately, these treatments do not fix the knee joint's instability. Moreover, because CCL disease in dogs is a degenerative and progressive condition, the ligament will continue to break down over time. Once a dog is constantly limping or completely unable to stand on the affected leg, surgery is usually the best option.