Patellar Luxation in Small Dogs: Signs, Grades, Treatment, and Daily Care

By Janice Jones | Updated April 5, 2026

Patellar luxation is one of the most common orthopedic problems seen in small dogs. You may also hear it called a luxating patella, slipping kneecap, or trick knee. All of these terms describe a condition in which the kneecap moves out of its normal position.

Some dogs show only an occasional skip or short limp. Others develop pain, stiffness, or more lasting mobility problems over time. This page explains what patellar luxation is, the signs owners often notice, how veterinarians grade it, and the treatment options that may be discussed.

What Is Patellar Luxation?

The patella is the kneecap. In a healthy knee, it sits in a groove at the end of the femur and moves smoothly as the leg bends and straightens.

With patellar luxation, the kneecap slips out of that groove. It may pop back into place on its own, or it may stay out of position. Some dogs are born with a tendency toward this problem, while others develop it later or after injury. Patellar luxation is especially common in toy and small breeds, although dogs of any size can be affected.

Breeds Affected with Patellar Luxation

Breeds Commonly Affected

Patellar luxation is seen most often in small and toy breeds. The original page notes especially high rates in breeds such as the Pomeranian and Yorkshire Terrier, and lists many other small breeds that may be affected as well.

Breeds commonly associated with patellar luxation include:

• Pomeranian
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Chihuahua
• Maltese
• Toy Poodle
• Papillon
• Havanese
• French Bulldog
• Pug
• Dachshund
• Bichon Frise
• Cavalier-type toy breeds and other small companion dogs

A breed tendency does not mean every dog will develop the condition, but it does mean owners should be aware of the signs.

Signs of Patellar Luxation in Dogs

Some dogs with a luxating patella show very mild signs, especially early on. One of the classic symptoms is a dog that suddenly lifts a back leg for a few steps, then puts it down and continues as if nothing happened.

You may notice:

• a skipping gait
• a brief limp that comes and goes
• sudden hopping on three legs
• stiffness after activity
• an odd sitting position
• reluctance to jump or use stairs
• signs of pain after the kneecap slips out and back in
• worsening lameness over time

In mild cases, the signs may be easy to miss. In more serious cases, repeated slipping can lead to joint wear, inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility. The original page also notes that some dogs with patellar luxation may later develop a cranial cruciate ligament injury.

How Veterinarians Grade Patellar Luxation

Veterinarians often describe patellar luxation using a grading system from 1 to 4. The higher the grade, the more severe the problem tends to be.

Grade 1

The kneecap can be pushed out of place during an exam, but it returns to its normal position on its own.

Grade 2

The kneecap slips out more easily and may stay out for a short time before popping back in, either on its own or with manipulation.

Grade 3

The kneecap stays out of position most of the time but can still be moved back into place manually.

Grade 4

The kneecap remains out of position and cannot be kept in place manually.

Dogs with mild grades may live comfortably for years with little intervention. Dogs with more severe grades are more likely to have ongoing pain, abnormal movement, and joint damage.

How Patellar Luxation Is Diagnosed

A veterinarian can often suspect patellar luxation based on the dog’s history, gait, and physical exam. In many cases, the vet can feel the knee joint and determine whether the kneecap is slipping in and out of place. The original page notes that sedation may occasionally be needed, and imaging may be recommended if surgery is being considered or if other orthopedic issues are suspected.

Your vet may recommend:

• a hands-on orthopedic exam
• gait evaluation
• x-rays
• additional imaging in more complicated cases

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the luxation, the dog's pain, and how much the condition affects daily life.

Some dogs with a mild luxating patella may never need surgery. Others do best with surgery, especially when the kneecap is out of place much of the time or the dog is in significant pain. The original page notes that surgery is more likely to be discussed in dogs with Grade 3 or Grade 4 luxation.

When Conservative Management May Be Enough

Dogs with mild cases may be managed with a combination of:

• Weight control
• Appropriate exercise
• Muscle strengthening
• Veterinary monitoring
• Pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication when prescribed
• Joint-support strategies discussed with your vet

When Surgery May be Discussed

Surgery may be recommended when:

• The dog has frequent or worsening lameness
• The kneecap does not stay in place
• Pain is interfering with daily life
• There is joint damage
• Other knee injuries are present

Surgical techniques vary, but the goal is to help the kneecap track more normally and reduce ongoing instability.

Everyday Management and Comfort Tips

If your dog has mild patellar luxation or is recovering from a diagnosis, daily management can make a real difference.

Keep your dog at a healthy weight

Extra weight puts more stress on the joints and can worsen mobility problems. Keeping a small dog lean is one of the most helpful things many owners can do.

Encourage safe, regular movement

Complete inactivity is usually not ideal unless your veterinarian specifically advises rest. Gentle movement helps maintain muscle tone and joint function. Controlled walks are often better than sudden bursts of jumping and rough play.

Avoid slippery surfaces

Tile, hardwood, and other slick floors can make it harder for a dog with an unstable kneecap to move comfortably. Rugs, runners, and traction aids may help.

Use ramps or steps when needed

If your dog jumps on and off furniture or struggles with stairs, a ramp or pet steps may reduce strain on the knees.

Follow your veterinarian’s advice about therapy or supplements

Some dogs may benefit from physical therapy, hydrotherapy, or joint-support supplements, but these decisions are best made with your veterinarian, since each dog’s condition is different. 

When to Call the Vet

Contact your veterinarian if your dog:

• Starts limping or skipping repeatedly
• Cries out in pain
• Stops bearing weight on a leg
• Becomes less active
• Struggles with stairs or jumping
• Seems worse over time
• Has sudden swelling or worsening lameness

A brief skip once in a while may not seem dramatic, but repeated episodes deserve attention.

Should Dogs With Patellar Luxation Be Bred?

If you breed dogs or are considering breeding, this is an important conversation to have with your veterinarian and breed club health resources.

Final Thoughts

Patellar luxation is common in small dogs, and in many cases, it starts with a minor symptom, such as a brief skip or a short limp. Even so, it should not be ignored.

The good news is that many dogs with this condition do well when it is recognized early and managed appropriately. Some live comfortably with simple lifestyle adjustments, while others benefit from surgery and rehabilitation.

If you think your dog may have a luxating patella, your veterinarian can help you understand the severity, the likely outlook, and the treatment options that make the most sense for your dog.

Important Note

This page is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If your dog is limping, in pain, or suddenly unable to use a leg, contact your veterinarian promptly.