“My dog limps” is a common comment from owners of small dog breeds during health checks. The dog may take a few steps on three legs or show intermittent lameness. These symptoms could indicate that the dog has a loose kneecap.

A loose kneecap is commonly seen in small dog breeds like Coton, Bichon, Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, and Danish-Swedish Farmdog.

This condition means that the kneecap occasionally slides out of its normal position from the center of the knee to the inside of the knee. This prevents the knee from extending normally. The dog may appear to limp or “skip” for a few steps, then walk normally again.

The frequency and duration of the lameness vary from dog to dog. If the dog is rarely bothered by the knee, it may live with the condition without issues.

Loose kneecaps are classified into four grades:

1. The kneecap occasionally slips out of place – the dog is not affected by the condition.

2. The kneecap slips out more often – the dog begins to be slightly bothered by the condition (the dog limps occasionally and relieves the leg).

3. The kneecap is usually out of place but can return to position.

4. The kneecap is always out of place and cannot return to position.

If lameness occurs frequently and for extended periods, it’s a sign that the condition is painful. Over time, the dog may develop arthritis in the knee. The knee is also more unstable due to the slipping kneecap, which increases the risk of injury to a cruciate ligament if the dog takes a wrong step.

If your dog has problems with a loose kneecap, it’s important to keep it slim to minimize the load on the knee.

If the dog is significantly affected by the problem, knee surgery may be the solution.

Veterinarian Louise Frost  specializes in knees and can perform surgery for loose kneecaps at Artemis.

At Artemis, we frequently perform surgeries for loose kneecaps with good results. The surgeon will assess the best surgical method. There are various types of surgery: for instance, deepening the “groove” where the kneecap sits to keep it in place; moving the attachment of the ligament that holds the kneecap so it stays in place; or tightening the joint capsule that secures everything in place.

Following knee surgery, you should expect that your dog will need rehabilitation.

If you are unsure whether your dog has a loose kneecap, have the veterinarian assess the knee. The decision for possible surgery is made in consultation with the owner if deemed necessary.