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Luxating Patella in Dogs (Floating Kneecap): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Care
A luxating patella, often referred to as a floating kneecap, is a common orthopedic condition in dogs. It occurs when the patella, or kneecap, shifts out of its normal position in the groove of the femur. While it can affect any dog, it's especially common in small breeds. Over time, this condition can lead to pain, inflammation, and mobility issues.
Understanding what causes a luxating patella, how to recognize the signs, and what options are available for treatment and long-term care is key to helping your dog stay active and comfortable. Whether you're managing a mild case or supporting a dog recovering from surgery, the goal is always the same: to improve their quality of life.
What causes luxating patella in dogs?
Luxating patella can have several underlying causes, and it’s important to identify them to guide treatment decisions. The condition may be congenital or acquired, and in some dogs, both genetic and environmental factors play a role.
Congenital factors
Many dogs are born with a structural predisposition to patellar luxation. This includes shallow trochlear grooves (the groove where the patella sits), poorly aligned quadriceps muscles, or malformation of the femur or tibia. These abnormalities are most common in small breed dogs such as:
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Pomeranians
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Yorkshire Terriers
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Chihuahuas
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Pekingese
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Toy and Miniature Poodles
In these dogs, the kneecap may naturally slide in and out of place during movement, sometimes from a very young age.
Acquired causes
Trauma to the knee joint, such as being hit by a car or a bad fall, can also cause patellar luxation. Injury can lead to ligament damage, joint instability, or changes in the bone that allow the kneecap to shift out of alignment.
Obesity is another factor. Excess weight places added stress on the joints, which can worsen the severity of the condition or contribute to its development in dogs who are already genetically predisposed.
What are the signs and symptoms of a luxating patella?
The symptoms of a luxating patella can vary based on the severity of the condition. Some dogs show very few signs, especially in the early stages, while others may have obvious pain or lameness.
Common signs include:
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Intermittent limping or skipping on one leg
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Sudden yelping or discomfort when running or jumping
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The leg “locking up” in a straight position temporarily
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Shaking or kicking the leg to "pop" the kneecap back in place
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Reluctance to climb stairs or jump onto furniture
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Bow-legged appearance in the hind legs (in more severe cases)
Many dog owners report seeing their pet run normally, then suddenly hold up a back leg for a few steps before returning to a normal gait. This is often the clearest visual cue of a luxating patella.
How is a luxating patella diagnosed?
Veterinarians usually diagnose a luxating patella through a physical examination. By manipulating the leg while your dog is relaxed, they can feel whether the kneecap moves out of place. X-rays or advanced imaging may be used to check for bone deformities or joint damage, especially if surgery is being considered.
The condition is classified into four grades:
Grade I: The patella moves out of place but returns on its own. Dogs may be asymptomatic.
Grade II: The patella dislocates more frequently and may require manual correction.
Grade III: The kneecap is out of place most of the time but can be moved back manually.
Grade IV: The kneecap is permanently out of place and cannot be manually repositioned.
What are the treatment options for a luxating patella?
Treatment depends on the grade of the condition, your dog’s age, overall health, and lifestyle. Mild cases often respond well to conservative management, while more severe grades may require surgical intervention.
Non-surgical treatments
Dogs with Grade I or mild Grade II luxation may be managed with the following options:
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Weight management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight reduces pressure on the knee joint.
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Joint supplements: These can help support joint health.
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Physical therapy: Controlled exercises help strengthen surrounding muscles and improve joint stability.
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Anti-inflammatory medications: These may be prescribed for pain relief during flare-ups.
In these cases, improving strength and maintaining healthy body weight often makes a significant difference.
Surgical treatment
For dogs with persistent lameness, pain, or higher-grade luxations (Grades III and IV), surgery is often recommended. The goal of surgery is to realign the kneecap and restore stability to the joint. Common procedures include:
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Trochleoplasty: Deepening the groove where the patella sits
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Tibial tuberosity transposition (TTT): Repositioning the tibial attachment of the patellar ligament
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Soft tissue reconstruction: Tightening or releasing surrounding tissues to hold the kneecap in place
Most dogs recover well after surgery and regain normal function, especially with proper post-operative care and physical therapy.
Can luxating patella cause long-term mobility problems?
If left untreated, luxating patella can lead to long-term joint damage, such as osteoarthritis. Chronic inflammation from the kneecap sliding in and out of place wears down cartilage and can cause ongoing pain and reduced mobility.
In more advanced cases, dogs may lose muscle mass in the affected leg or develop secondary issues in the hips or spine due to altered gait. That’s why even mild cases should be closely monitored.
How can dog wheelchairs help dogs with luxating patella?
Dog wheelchairs are not only for paralyzed pets. For dogs dealing with luxating patella, especially those with post-surgical weakness, chronic arthritis, or hind leg instability, mobility support can make a meaningful difference.
Walkin’ Pets wheelchairs are designed to take pressure off the hind limbs, allowing dogs to move comfortably and safely while their joints heal or adapt. These mobility aids can help in several ways:
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Support during rehabilitation: After surgery, dogs often need to relearn how to walk correctly. A wheelchair provides the balance and support they need during this phase.
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Reduced joint stress: For dogs with arthritis or permanent instability, wheelchairs minimize the strain on the knees and hips.
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Improved activity and mood: Mobility aids help keep dogs active, preventing the muscle loss and depression that often comes with limited movement.
If your dog has been diagnosed with a luxating patella and struggles with mobility, it may be worth exploring whether a Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair can improve their daily life.
What care is needed for dogs living with luxating patella?
Ongoing management is key, even after surgery. The following strategies can help dogs with luxating patella live comfortably and maintain mobility:
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Daily low-impact exercise: Short walks, swimming, and gentle play help strengthen muscles.
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Avoid jumping: Use ramps or steps to limit jumping off furniture or into cars.
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Regular check-ups: Schedule routine veterinary exams to monitor joint health.
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Home environment adjustments: Non-slip rugs and orthopedic beds reduce the risk of injury and support joint comfort.
A proactive approach helps prevent further joint damage and ensures your dog stays mobile and pain-free for years to come.
Frequently asked questions
What breeds are most prone to luxating patella in dogs?
Luxating patella is most common in small dog breeds with compact builds and genetically predisposed skeletal structures. Breeds frequently affected include Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Toy Poodles, Maltese, and Boston Terriers.
These breeds often have shallow femoral grooves or improperly aligned limbs, which can cause the kneecap to slip out of place. Larger breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Great Danes may also be affected, but it's less common. Regular veterinary checkups can help catch early signs in high-risk breeds.
Can a dog live a normal life with a luxating patella?
Yes, many dogs with a luxating patella can live a full and comfortable life, especially if the condition is caught early and properly managed. Mild cases often respond well to non-surgical treatments like weight management, joint supplements, and physical therapy.
Dogs with more severe cases may need surgery to regain stability and reduce pain. With ongoing care and monitoring, dogs can maintain mobility, remain active, and avoid long-term complications such as arthritis or joint deformities.
How much does surgery for a luxating patella cost?
The cost of luxating patella surgery can range from $1,500 to $4,000 per knee, depending on the severity of the condition, the region, and the specific veterinary surgeon. This estimate usually includes the procedure, anesthesia, post-operative medications, and follow-up care.
If both knees require surgery, the total cost may double. It’s recommended to get a full treatment estimate from your veterinarian and ask about financing options or pet insurance coverage if available.
How can I tell if my dog has a luxating patella or another knee problem?
The most common sign of a luxating patella is when a dog suddenly lifts a hind leg for a few steps, then resumes normal walking. Other signs include limping, skipping, stiffness, or sudden yelps during activity.
However, similar symptoms can also appear in other knee problems, such as cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injuries. A veterinary exam, including palpation and possibly X-rays, is needed to confirm whether the kneecap is dislocating or if another joint issue is present.
Is luxating patella painful for dogs?
Yes, luxating patella can cause pain, especially as the condition progresses. In early stages, dogs may only show brief signs of discomfort when the kneecap slips. Over time, repeated dislocation can lead to inflammation, cartilage wear, and joint instability, resulting in chronic pain or arthritis.
Some dogs may hide their pain well, so it’s important to monitor for subtle signs such as reluctance to exercise, favoring one leg, or behavioral changes. Early intervention helps reduce long-term discomfort.
What is the recovery time after luxating patella surgery?
Most dogs recover from luxating patella surgery within 6 to 12 weeks. The initial healing period usually involves limited activity, pain management, and close monitoring. Your veterinarian may recommend crate rest, short leash walks, and passive range-of-motion exercises.
Around 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery, dogs often begin a structured rehabilitation program to rebuild muscle strength and joint stability. Full recovery varies by age, overall health, and surgical technique, but most dogs regain strong, stable movement with proper care.
Can luxating patella worsen over time if not treated?
Yes, if left untreated, luxating patella can become worse over time. What starts as a mild or occasional dislocation (Grade I or II) may progress into a more severe, persistent condition (Grade III or IV).
Chronic dislocation places ongoing stress on the joint, which can lead to arthritis, loss of mobility, and muscle atrophy. Early diagnosis and appropriate care, whether surgical or non-surgical, can help slow progression and reduce long-term complications.
Are there exercises that help dogs with a luxating patella?
Yes, low-impact exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and improve stability in dogs with luxating patella. Controlled leash walks, gentle incline walking, and underwater treadmill sessions are often recommended. These activities build quadriceps strength without overloading the joint.
Always consult your veterinarian or a canine rehabilitation therapist before starting any exercise plan. They can design a routine that matches your dog’s condition and stage of recovery, especially post-surgery.
When should a dog with a luxating patella use a wheelchair?
A dog with luxating patella may benefit from using a wheelchair if they show signs of chronic hind leg weakness, pain, or instability that affects mobility.
Wheelchairs can be particularly useful during post-surgical recovery, for dogs with concurrent joint issues like hip dysplasia, or in older dogs where surgery isn't an option. A properly fitted dog wheelchair supports the hind limbs, relieves pressure on the knees, and helps dogs move more safely and confidently.
Can luxating patella affect both legs in a dog?
Yes, luxating patella often affects both hind legs, especially in breeds with a genetic predisposition. In fact, bilateral involvement is common, although one side may show symptoms before the other.
Treating both legs may involve either simultaneous or staged surgical procedures, depending on the severity and your veterinarian's recommendation. Even in non-surgical cases, both knees should be evaluated and managed to prevent compensatory strain and ensure balanced movement.