A luxating patella is an unfortunately common condition that affects numerous dog breeds, some more than others. When a dog is suffering from a luxating patella, it means that the knee cap has moved out of its natural position.
The kneecap (patella) in dogs is shaped like an almond and helps assist when the knee is extended. It is one of the most common skeletal problems found in small dog breeds, in particular. It is important to note that since the patella is located in a dog’s hind legs, these are the only limbs impacted by this condition.
Below we will go over some of the most common symptoms and signs of a luxating patella, as well as what breeds are typically affected and what some of your treatment options are. We know how much your beloved pooch means to you (and to us!), which is why we are committed to educating our human patients about certain conditions that may affect your dog’s health.
If your dog is displaying any of the symptoms below, be sure and contact your veterinary clinic immediately. While the severity of this condition differs from dog to dog, it is important that it is caught early on in order to ensure proper treatment is administered.
What is a Luxating Patella?
A luxating patella, also referred to as ‘patellar luxation’, ‘trick knee’ or ‘floating kneecap’, occurs when a dog’s kneecap shifts to an improper location within the leg. The natural position of the kneecap is inside of a special groove on the dog’s femur. As a dog walks, runs, jumps and plays, his or her kneecap moves up and down this groove. When a dog is suffering from a luxating patella, it means the kneecap is no longer working in that groove.
There is no one form of a luxating patella – it can be unilateral (only one leg is affected), bilateral (both legs are affected), an isolated single event or a chronic recurring condition. Similarly, this condition varies widely in severity. In some cases, the condition is so mild it may go unnoticed. In other cases, a luxating patella can be extremely severe and result in permanent, crippling damage.
Because of this, it is imperative that you educate yourself about the signs, symptoms and causes of this debilitating condition. Occasionally, a luxating patella can lead to a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament, which is the connecting point between the thigh bone and lower leg bone.
Symptoms of a Luxating Patella
Most dogs who are affected by a luxating patella are middle-aged with a history of lameness in the affected rear legs. Other symptoms of this condition may include the following:
- Crying out in pain when running
- Frequent stops when running
- The affected leg may extend rearward
- Unable to flex the affected leg back into normal position
- Refusal to move
- Repeatedly shake their legs in an attempt to return the patella to its normal position
- Whimpering
- Heavy breathing
If left untreated, the dog will become increasingly lame and premature arthritis may set in. In order to avoid this, contact your veterinary clinic if you ever notice any of these conditions.
Affected Breeds
The following breeds are known to suffer from high rates of a luxating patella:
- Miniature Poodles
- Toy Poodles
- Chihuahuas
- Labrador Retriever
- Boston Terriers
- Yorkshire Terriers
- Basset Hounds
- Pekingese
- Shih Tzus
- Lhasa Apsos
Thankfully, surgery is not always required for this condition. Many small dogs live their entire life with a luxating patella and it never causes them any arthritis or pain. The varying grades of this condition, however, is a good reason to contact your veterinary clinic, especially if you believe your dog may have a luxating patella.
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