Patellar Luxation in Dogs: A 2025 Vet Guide by Dr Duncan Houston 🐶🦿
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Patellar Luxation in Dogs: A 2025 Vet Guide by Dr Duncan Houston 🐶🦿
By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc | July 2025
🦴 What Is Patellar Luxation?
Patellar luxation—often referred to as a "trick knee"—occurs when a dog’s kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal groove on the femur. This can range from temporary dislocations that pop back into place to permanent misalignment that severely impacts movement. It is most common in small breed dogs but can occur in any size or age. 🐕🩺
📍 Causes of Luxating Patella
Most cases of patellar luxation are due to **anatomical abnormalities**, which can be inherited or develop as the dog grows. Main causes include:
- 🦴 Shallow trochlear groove in the femur
- 🎯 Medial displacement of the quadriceps tendon
- 🧬 Genetics (especially in toy breeds)
- 🩹 Traumatic injury to the joint
As the kneecap repeatedly dislocates, **arthritis and joint damage** can set in over time. Early diagnosis and treatment are key. ⏳
🐾 Breeds Commonly Affected
Small breed and toy dogs are at highest risk. These include:
- Chihuahua
- Pomeranian
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Pekingese
- Shih Tzu
- Pug
- Papillon
- Maltese
- Miniature Pinscher
- Silky Terrier
- Brussels Griffon
- Manchester Terrier
🐶 Larger breeds like the Greyhound can also be affected, though less commonly.
📊 Grades of Patellar Luxation
The condition is classified into four grades based on severity:
| Grade | Description | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | Patella manually dislocates, returns on its own | No treatment required |
| Grade 2 | Patella dislocates during movement, returns spontaneously | Supportive care; possible surgery if symptomatic |
| Grade 3 | Patella dislocates easily, stays out until manually replaced | Surgery typically recommended |
| Grade 4 | Patella is always luxated, cannot be returned manually | Surgery required; severe mobility issues |
🛠️ Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the dog’s age, grade of luxation, and level of pain or dysfunction.
Non-Surgical Support (Grade 1–2)
- 💊 Pain relief (NSAIDs)
- 🍖 Chondroprotective supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM)
- 🏃 Controlled exercise and rehab
- ⚖️ Weight management
Surgical Treatment (Grade 3–4)
Surgical repair often involves one or more of the following:
- Trochleoplasty – Deepens the femoral groove
- Tibial Tuberosity Transposition (TTT) – Realigns patellar tracking
- Soft Tissue Balancing – Tightens or releases surrounding tissues
🦿 Surgery generally yields excellent results and restores function in most dogs.
🧘 Post-Operative Care
After surgery, recovery involves:
- ⛓️ 6–8 weeks of restricted activity
- 💧 Hydrotherapy to improve range of motion
- 🧴 Massage and stretching techniques
- 📉 Gradual increase in leash walking distance
- 📆 Follow-ups with your vet for radiographs and mobility checks
🧪 Conservative Therapy: Helpful Tools
- 🐟 Omega-3 fatty acid supplements for joint inflammation
- 🛏️ Orthopedic beds to reduce joint stress
- 🧊 Cold packs for flare-ups
- 🧼 Nail trimming to improve gait and stability
📈 Prognosis
With proper treatment, most dogs recover well—even with Grade 4 luxation. Left untreated, patellar luxation can lead to chronic pain, joint deformity, and loss of function. Early diagnosis = better outcomes. ✅
📋 Quick Comparison Table
| Grade | Lameness | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| I | None | Monitor |
| II | Occasional | Supplements, NSAIDs, +/- surgery |
| III | Frequent | Surgery recommended |
| IV | Severe | Surgery required |
🔧 Ask A Vet Can Help
Wondering if your dog’s skip or limp is patellar luxation? 🕵️ Upload a video and chat with our team on the Ask A Vet app. We’ll help you determine the grade and guide you through treatment or surgical prep. 🐾💬
🐾 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston
Patellar luxation may sound serious, but with the right care and support, your dog can regain mobility and comfort. Whether it’s surgery or supplements, every step you take now ensures better joint health for years to come. 🐕❤️
