Companion Animals

Dog Patellar Luxation: Surgical and Medical Approaches

Patellar luxation is a common orthopaedic problem in small and toy breeds, ranging from asymptomatic to severely painful and disabling forms requiring surgery.

Key Facts

Patellar luxation affects up to 7% of all dogs, with small breeds most commonly affected
Graded on a scale of 1-4 based on severity and reducibility of the luxation
Grade 3 and 4 luxations typically require surgical correction to restore normal function
Common surgical techniques include trochlear block recession, tibial crest transposition, and soft tissue corrections
The condition has a strong hereditary component and affected dogs should not be bred

Welfare Considerations

Patellar luxation causes pain during episodes of luxation, chronic lameness in severe cases, and secondary cartilage damage over time. Untreated grade 3-4 luxation leads to progressive deterioration and ongoing discomfort. Owners often underestimate chronic low-grade pain. Weight management reduces stress on abnormal joints and improves welfare even without surgery.

What You Can Do

Have small-breed puppies screened for patellar luxation as part of routine health checks
Consult a veterinary surgeon about surgical options for grade 3-4 luxations
Maintain healthy body weight in affected dogs to reduce joint stress
Avoid breeding from affected animals to reduce prevalence in future generations
Use appropriate pain relief as advised by your vet for affected dogs