Patellar Luxation in Dogs
If you have ever noticed your dog suddenly skip, hop, or hold up a hind leg for a few steps — only to return to normal moments later — it might be more than just a quirky gait. One common cause of this behavior is a condition called patellar luxation, which refers to the kneecap slipping out of its normal position.
This orthopedic issue is most often seen in small breed dogs, but it can affect dogs of all sizes. Here's what you should know.
What Is Patellar Luxation
In a healthy dog, the kneecap sits snugly in a groove on the femur (thigh bone) and glides up and down as the leg bends. In dogs with patellar luxation, the kneecap moves out of this groove — most often toward the inside of the leg, though it can also move outward.
The luxation may happen intermittently or persistently, depending on severity. Some dogs are born with an abnormally shallow groove, while others may develop it due to trauma.
Breeds Commonly Affected
Patellar luxation is more frequently diagnosed in small and toy breeds, though some larger breeds can also be affected.
Commonly affected breeds include:
Pomeranian
Yorkshire Terrier
Chihuahua
Miniature and Toy Poodles
Pekingese
Boston Terrier
Papillon
French Bulldog
Jack Russell Terrier
Large breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Akitas can occasionally be affected, often due to injury or poor joint development.
What to Watch For
Symptoms can range from subtle to obvious. You may notice:
A sudden skip or hop during walking or running
Holding up one hind leg temporarily, then using it again normally
Occasional lameness or limping
Signs of discomfort during play or exercise
Decreased interest in jumping or running
In mild cases, the kneecap may pop out and back in on its own without much discomfort. In more severe cases, it may stay dislocated and cause persistent lameness or joint changes over time.
What You Can Do at Home
If your dog has been diagnosed with patellar luxation or you suspect, through seeing your dog limp, it may be an issue, you can help manage symptoms at home by:
Restricting activity: Limit jumping, rough play, or excessive running, especially on slippery floors or stairs
Maintaining a healthy weight: Extra weight increases pressure on the joints and can make symptoms worse
Using non-slip rugs: Provide traction indoors to prevent slipping
Monitoring: Keep an eye out for changes in gait, worsening lameness, or signs of pain
Follow up: inform your vet of your concern and schedule a visit. If the limping is intermittent—consider capturing a video of the event and sharing this with your veterinarian.
These steps will not correct the problem, but they can help reduce stress on the joint and slow progression, while a further plan is established with your veterinarian.
Is it an emergency?
Usually, patellar luxation is not an emergency, especially if the dog seems otherwise happy and comfortable. However, seek veterinary care promptly if your dog:
Shows signs of significant pain (crying out, guarding the leg, refusing to walk)
Cannot bear weight on the limb for more than a brief moment
Experiences swelling or other changes after trauma
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity, typically graded on a scale of I to IV:
Grade I to II (mild to moderate): Often managed without surgery through weight control, joint supplements, and lifestyle modifications. Your vet might recommend physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
Grade III to IV (moderate to severe): Surgery is often recommended if the kneecap is frequently or permanently out of place, or if the dog is in pain or developing arthritis
Several surgical options exist and will be discussed with your veterinary surgeon. Most dogs do well post-operatively with proper rehabilitation.
The Bottom Line
Patellar luxation is a manageable condition. Many dogs live full, active lives with minimal intervention, especially in mild cases. Recognizing the signs early and working with your veterinarian to create a care plan can help keep your dog comfortable and mobile for years to come.
If you ever notice unusual skipping or limping in your dog — especially a small breed — it is worth scheduling a veterinary exam. Early detection and good management can make a big difference.
