Dog Patellar Luxation Management

Patellar luxation is a common orthopaedic condition in small and toy breeds causing intermittent lameness and chronic pain if untreated.

Key Facts

Patellar luxation affects up to 7% of dogs; toy and miniature breeds are most commonly affected.
The patella (kneecap) slips medially or laterally out of the trochlear groove causing intermittent lameness.
Grade 1-2 luxations may be managed conservatively; Grade 3-4 typically require surgical correction.
Common breeds include Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Maltese, Pomeranians, and French Bulldogs.
Genetic selection and breeding programmes can reduce prevalence in predisposed breeds.

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with patellar luxation experience episodic lameness — the classic "skipping" gait as the patella slips in and out — that is uncomfortable and, in advanced cases, chronically painful. Grade 3-4 luxations with permanent medial displacement cause constant abnormal gait mechanics, predisposing to early-onset cruciate ligament disease. Surgical correction using trochleoplasty and tibial crest transposition provides excellent outcomes in most patients. Post-operative rehabilitation with physiotherapy optimises recovery. Breeding standards that screen for and reduce patellar luxation inheritance are important for long-term population welfare.

What You Can Do

Have small breed dogs examined for patellar luxation at annual check-ups.
Seek orthopaedic specialist assessment for dogs showing persistent skipping gait or lameness.
Pursue surgical correction for Grade 3-4 luxations to prevent secondary joint disease.
Choose breeders of toy breeds who screen for patellar luxation before breeding.