Patella luxation is thought to be a genetic orthopedic condition, more seen in the Papillon breed than any other condition.
The dog has a shallow groove in the fibular that lets the ligament, which holds the patella (knee- cap) in position, slip out to either one of the sides.
The severity of the condition is graded from one to four.
Lameness in both or one hind leg are a symptom of patella luxation.Less severe grades can be treated by exercise restrictions and anti-inflammatory medications. Surgery may be an option depending on the severity of the condition.