What are the Signs of a Dog Luxating Patella?

When the patella luxates, it means that your dog's kneecap has moved out of its normal position. The patella can move to several different locations within the stifle (knee) joint, depending on which structures are damaged or loose. Most of the time, the movement (luxation) of the patella is medial, meaning towards the body.

What are the Signs of a Luxating Patella?

When your dog is standing, take a look at him from behind. Does he stand with bow-legs? This may indicate that his patella is prone to luxate.

• "Skipping" is the most typical sign of luxating patella, especially in tiny breeds. Your dog may take a few steps hopping along before returning to its regular gait. Even a clicking noise may be audible as the kneecap moves out of place.
• Your dog might potentially be seated with one knee pointed outward.
• Our dog may walk stiffly or awkwardly if he has luxating patella in both knees. He might not fully extend his knees.
• Some dogs can learn to kick their leg to the side, which will cause the kneecap to reposition itself.

Beginning of Luxating Patella Symptoms

• As puppies first begin to walk, some of them exhibit aberrant hind-leg movement.
• Frequently, instances in grades III and IV are more serious.
• Some canines, whether young or old, walk abnormally their whole lives. Both intermittent and ongoing lameness are possible. They frequently have luxations of grade II or III.
• When tissues age, older dogs may exhibit abrupt indicators of lameness. A luxation may also result from an injury or a worsening joint condition. Typically, these luxations fall into grades I and II.

Luxating Patella Treatment and Brace Options

Many pet owners turn to knee braces as a luxating patella surgery alternative when the condition is mild. Bracing the knee allows the dog’s soft tissue to stabilize and gain the elasticity it needs. There are several rankings of luxating patella that define the severity, so be sure to talk with your vet about your dog’s specific needs. 

Dog knee braces for luxating patellas typically come in two options.