Patellar Luxation in dogs

Species: Dog
Condition: Patellar Luxation
Organ System: Nervous/sensory

A condition in which the kneecap (patella) is dislocated from its normal position in the groove of the thigh bone. It is usually seen in young dogs of toy and miniature breeds. Depending on the severity, arthritis of the knee joint can develop. Dogs are walking strangely, lifting their hind legs high and limping on the affected leg. In order to diagnose the patellar luxation, the vet will need to determine the kneecap movement by touch and compare it with the X-ray image of the joint. In most cases it is necessary to surgically correct the dislocation. The procedure is usually successful, eliminating lameness and dysfunction of the leg.

Breeds exposed to Patellar Luxation – Research Reference
Border Terrier Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Boston Terrier Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Border Terrier – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Boston Terrier – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)

Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine

To learn more about Patellar Luxation or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.