Luxating Patella in Dogs - Treatment Options
Luxating Patella in Dogs — What It Is
A luxating patella is a kneecap that slips out of its normal groove. When the patella luxates, it can shift to one side when the knee is extended, so the knee can't move normally. It's more common in small and toy breeds, often has a hereditary component, and ranges in severity. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) describes four grades of patellar luxation, with detailed descriptions of each grade here. Severity tends to become more noticeable as a dog matures.
Surgery for a Luxating Patella
One of the most common questions about a luxating patella is "will my dog need surgery?" There isn't always a clear answer — it depends on the grade/severity, the dog's overall health, and other factors, and it usually comes down to a decision between you and your veterinarian. If surgery is required, some owners use a daily joint supplement like Flexpet before and after the procedure to help support healthy cartilage, joint comfort, and a healthy inflammatory response; discuss any supplement with your vet, as it may fit into the recovery plan.
Home Care for Luxating Patella in Dogs
The right approach depends on severity, but several supportive home measures can help. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is very important — excess weight puts more pressure on the knees and can exacerbate joint issues. Regular exercise such as walking, running, and swimming helps strengthen the legs, and keeping your pet leashed outside helps prevent trauma like being hit by a car.
A home routine can also include an all-natural daily joint supplement. We recommend Flexpet as a comprehensive daily joint supplement to help support cartilage health and a healthy inflammatory response. Flexpet is recommended by veterinarians such as Dr. David Randall to support joint health and mobility in dogs. Flexpet is a supplement, not a medication — it isn't intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and it isn't a substitute for veterinary care.
Why Flexpet?
- All-natural, human-grade ingredients, made without harsh additives
- 90-day satisfaction guarantee, so there's no risk
- Made in the USA
- The only supplement with CM8®
- A track record of nearly 20 years in business
Getting Your Dog Help
Whether your dog should have surgery is a case-by-case decision best made with your veterinarian after reviewing all your options. Whether your pup is using home care or recovering from surgery, a daily joint supplement can be a helpful part of the routine. Flexpet is an all-natural supplement formulated to nourish the joints, support healthy cartilage, support the joint's natural lubricating fluid, and support a healthy inflammatory response.
Questions? Our customer care team is available M–F, 9am–6pm EST at 1-800-505-0575. Flexcin International, Inc.