Luxating Patella in Dogs
A luxating patella occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove, causing intermittent skipping, hopping, or lameness. At Animal Surgical Care of PA, we diagnose and correct this common condition to restore comfortable, stable movement.
The kneecap, or patella, can dislocate toward the inside of the leg (medial patella luxation) or the outside (lateral patella luxation), with medial luxation being far more common, especially in small and toy breeds. Larger breeds are more likely to experience lateral luxation.
Dogs with a luxating patella often show a characteristic skip or hop in their gait, sometimes bearing weight normally between episodes. Over time, an untreated luxation can lead to progressive cartilage wear, chronic pain, and arthritis, particularly in more severe grades of the condition.
Diagnosis involves a physical exam and radiographs to grade the severity of the luxation and assess joint alignment. Depending on the grade and direction of luxation, we offer corrective surgery through our MPL surgery and LPL surgery programs, which realign the kneecap and stabilize the joint for long-term comfort.
If your dog has an intermittent skip in their step or is favoring a hind leg, contact Animal Surgical Care of PA at (484) 886-8612 to schedule an orthopedic evaluation.
Luxating Patella in Dogs FAQs
What is a luxating patella?
It's a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing intermittent lameness.
Which dogs are most prone to luxating patella?
Small and toy breeds are more prone to medial luxation, while larger breeds more often experience lateral luxation.
What are the signs of a luxating patella?
A characteristic skip or hop in the gait, sometimes with normal weight-bearing between episodes.
Does a luxating patella always require surgery?
Mild grades may be monitored, but moderate to severe luxation typically benefits from surgical correction to prevent arthritis.
How is a luxating patella diagnosed?
A physical exam and radiographs grade the severity and guide treatment decisions.
What happens if a luxating patella is left untreated?
Ongoing dislocation can accelerate cartilage wear, chronic pain, and arthritis over time.