I have a 5-year-old mixed breed dog. He is very healthy, active, and 48 pounds - a normal weight for his build. He frequently cuts corners very quickly while running and I have recently found out that he has "completely torn" his CCL (the quotes are because I am not 100% sure that a complete tear can be determined by physical exam alone). I was presented with only the option of surgery. I have looked into TPLO, TTO, and extracapsular repair with the suture-type material. I have found mixed thoughts on whether the surgery is necessary or if my dog is capable of recovery on his own with activity restriction. I am hesitant to put my dog through such an ordeal if it is possible for him to recover without surgery. So my questions are: Is the surgery necessary? If so, which would be the best one for a 48 pound, medium frame, active dog who is still young enough to remain active for several more years? And finally, if I wait and see if he recovers on his own and he does not, will he form arthritis that will make the surgery less successful? I am very confused about what to do. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.