Patellar luxation is a common orthopedic problem in small and toy breeds, causing pain and lameness that ranges from intermittent discomfort to severe disability requiring surgical correction.
Patellar luxation causes pain and intermittent lameness that affects quality of life. In mild cases, dogs show intermittent skipping gait when the kneecap slips out of position, which is uncomfortable. In severe cases, the kneecap is permanently displaced, causing chronic pain and abnormal gait that affects mobility and normal activity. Dogs with grade 3-4 luxation are often reluctant to exercise, play, or engage normally with their environment due to discomfort. Surgical correction at appropriate severity grades provides significant welfare improvement by restoring pain-free movement. Prevention through responsible breeding selection is the most sustainable welfare solution.