Dog - Luxating Patella
What is a luxating patella?
Slipping kneecap. The patella (kneecap) is located at the front of the knee joint. When ‘luxating’ the kneecap is loose and moves out of its normal location.
How does this occur?
The muscles of the thigh attach to the top of the kneecap. The patellar ligament runs from the bottom of the patella to the tibia or shin bone just below the knee joint. The patella normally runs in a groove in the thigh bone (femur). If the patellar ligament is misaligned or if there is shallowness of the patellar groove, contraction of the muscles can cause the patella to become misaligned. This is usually, but not always, to the inside of the leg (medial patella displacement). Sometimes normal movement will reposition the patella or the dog may learn to move the leg in such a way to restore the kneecap to a more comfortable position.
Is a slipping kneecap painful for my dog?
Some dogs appear to tolerate patella luxation with little apparent pain or inconvenience. If the joint is unstable this puts strain on other structures, particularly the cruciate ligaments within the knee joint, stretching or tearing of these can result in total joint instability which is extremely painful for the dog. In addition, over time, arthritis occurs with associated pain.
What is the solution?
If your dog has persistent lameness or other knee problems occur surgery should be considered. This can involve sometimes complicated surgery since on occasion procedures such as re-alignment of the patellar ligament, deepening of the patellar groove and re-adjustment of the joint capsule may have to be carried out.
Therefore it may be necessary, depending upon the severity of the condition, to refer your dog to an orthopaedic specialist. However we will discuss this fully with you.
What are the chances of success?
If surgery is performed before arthritis occurs, prognosis is excellent. Your dog should regain full use of the leg. If arthritis has already occurred, the joint may still be painful especially in cold weather but overall we would expect your dog to enjoy a much better quality of life.
Please feel free to discuss any concerns with us.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Feb 5, 2010.
