Patellar Luxation in Dogs

Moderate Risk Orthopedic Hereditary

Patellar Luxation is a medium-severity orthopedic condition that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove in the femur. It can be medial (inward) or lateral (outward) and ranges from grade 1 (occasional slipping) to grade 4 (permanent dislocation). It is documented across 6 breeds, though prevalence and severity can differ significantly between them. It typically becomes apparent at 4 months - 6 years. Early signs to watch for include intermittent skipping on hind leg, sudden leg lifting, bunny-hopping, and hind limb lameness. When treatment is required, costs are estimated at £1,500-£3,500 depending on severity, location, and the specific intervention needed. Patellar Luxation has a hereditary component, so health-screening certificates from the breeder are strongly recommended for predisposed breeds. This page covers symptoms, treatment options, and preventive steps — along with breed-specific information where available.

Signs & Symptoms

The following symptoms are commonly associated with Patellar Luxation in dogs. If your dog displays several of these signs, consult your vet promptly — early diagnosis typically leads to better outcomes.

Intermittent skipping on hind leg
Sudden leg lifting
Bunny-hopping
Hind limb lameness
Visible kneecap displacement

Treatment Overview

Grade 1-2 cases are managed conservatively with weight control and physiotherapy. Grade 3-4 typically require surgical correction to deepen the patellar groove and realign the tibial crest.

Typical onset: 4 months - 6 years

Prevention & Screening

While not all cases of Patellar Luxation can be prevented, the following steps reduce risk or enable earlier intervention:

Breed from dogs with normal patellar scores
Maintain healthy weight
Avoid high-impact activities in affected puppies

Estimated Treatment Cost

Treatment for Patellar Luxation is estimated at £1,500-£3,500, depending on severity, the specific intervention required, and your location. Costs may be higher for surgical procedures or ongoing management. Comprehensive pet insurance covering hereditary conditions is strongly recommended.

Breeds Affected by Patellar Luxation

The following 50 breeds are documented as being susceptible to Patellar Luxation. Click any breed to view breed-specific information about this condition, including prevalence and recommended screening.

Looking for more information? Browse all dog health conditions or explore the health guides for in-depth breed care advice.