Luxating Patella in Dogs: Signs and Surgery Options
If your dog occasionally skips or hops on one back leg, they may have a luxating patella — a common orthopedic condition where the kneecap (patella) slips out of place. This issue can range from mild and manageable to severe enough to require surgery.
What Causes Luxating Patella
The condition often results from genetic factors affecting how the bones and ligaments align, though injury or trauma can also play a role. Small breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkies are most commonly affected, but any dog can develop it.
Signs to Watch For
- Intermittent skipping or limping on one hind leg
- Sudden yelps of pain followed by normal walking
- Difficulty jumping or climbing stairs
- Stiffness or favoring one side
Treatment Options
Mild cases can sometimes be managed with weight control, joint supplements, and physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles.
For moderate to severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended to realign the knee and prevent long-term damage or arthritis.
Your veterinarian can assess the severity through a physical exam and imaging. Early detection can make a big difference in long-term mobility and comfort.
If you notice your dog limping or skipping steps, call us or book an appointment for an orthopedic evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
About Us
At Partners Veterinary Group, we believe in energizing our team members through shared values, while helping them create value for our clients and patients. Knowing we can help make pets’ and people’s lives better motivates us to continually strive for excellence and love what we do.
Our team consistently works to build educational, supportive, and cooperative work environments that cater to positive experiences and professional growth. We’re constantly evolving, creating innovative ways to deliver cutting-edge medicine to our patients. We equip our teams with tools to enhance their skills and improve their knowledge.