While I thought this would be a good option for my 11.8 yo rottie, but due to her lack of muscle mass in the rear in both legs, this brace is to heavy for her and would not be suitable to help her ability to improve. I made the decision to interview 2 surgeon's for surgery, chose one and after they went into her leg arthoscopically, finding her ligaments were badly shredded, they weren't able to perform the TPLO and reverted to the Tightrope method. I have been thru a TPLO surgery and recovery so I know how hard it is, but the recovery is a lot faster than the brace may have provided for her. She's now 8-9 weeks PO and just now her rear muscles are starting to improve, but still not strong enough to hold this brace. As she recovers with muscle tone, I'll chat with her vet to see if maybe using the brace will help her, but only after she's ready to play with my other dog and then use it only at that time. I know this brace is well built but is not for all dogs. I believe that a vet exam is necessary to determine if a dog is capable to wear it and not break a leg further up, as this was my concern with her age and condition. Good luck to all that are using it.