Get Your Dog Running, Playing & Pain-Free Again with Expert Luxating Patella Surgery

A luxating patella (slipping kneecap) is one of the most common orthopedic issues in dogs – especially small breeds – and it can cause chronic pain, limping, and arthritis if left untreated. At Animal Outpatient Surgery of San Diego, Dr. Paul Farrell and our surgical team have performed thousands of successful orthopedic procedures, helping dogs return to the life they love.

25+ years of surgical experience with Dr. Paul Farrell, DVM
Thousands of successful orthopedic procedures performed
Trusted by San Diego veterinarians for referrals and specialist care
Board-certified surgeons on staff for complex cases
State-of-the-art facility offering high-quality, affordable surgery

Highly rated on Google – trusted by San Diego pet owners for compassionate, expert surgical care.

Request a Consultation Today

Complete the form below and our team will reach out within one business day to discuss your dog’s condition and next steps, or click to call (858) 256-5551

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25+

Years of Surgical Experience

1,000's

of Successful Orthopedic Procedures Performed

★★★★★

Google Rating from San Diego Pet Owners

3

Surgeons and Board Certified Specialists

Is Your Dog Skipping, Hopping, or Suddenly Holding Up a Rear Leg?

A luxating patella (commonly called a “slipping kneecap”) is one of the most frequently diagnosed orthopedic conditions in dogs, especially in small and toy breeds. It occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove in the thigh bone, causing a telltale skip or hop in your dog’s gait. The signs can be subtle at first, but tend to become more frequent and noticeable as the condition progresses. Here’s what to watch for.

The Classic "Skip" or Hop

Your dog intermittently skips or hops on a rear leg for a stride or two, then resumes normal movement. This is the hallmark sign of a luxating patella, owners often describe it as a “skip in their step.”

Sudden Leg Holding or Lameness

Your dog abruptly holds a rear leg up while walking or running, then puts it back down after a moment. As the condition progresses, these episodes may become more frequent or last longer.

Yelping or Crying During Movement

Your dog vocalizes pain when the kneecap slips, particularly during sudden movements, jumping, or getting up after rest.

Reluctance to Jump or Use Stairs

Your dog hesitates or refuses to jump onto furniture, into the car, or up stairs. They may also seem stiff or sore after exercise or a rest period.

Abnormal Leg Alignment

In moderate to advanced cases, the repeated abnormal forces on the joint can rotate the leg inward or outward, resulting in a visibly bowed or “knock-kneed” appearance in one or both rear legs.

Small or Toy Breed Dog

Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Pugs, Maltese, and Miniature Poodles are among the most commonly affected breeds. Larger breeds including Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers can develop the condition too, and tend to have more complex presentations.

Important: A luxating patella is a structural condition, it will not correct itself on its own. Each time the kneecap slips out of place, it causes wear on the cartilage inside the joint, leading to progressive arthritis and chronic pain. Untreated moderate to severe cases also significantly increase the risk of a CCL (cruciate ligament) tear. Early evaluation gives your dog the best chance at a full, pain-free recovery.

What Is Luxating Patella Surgery and Is It Right for Your Dog?

Luxating patella surgery corrects the underlying structural problem that causes the kneecap to slip, restoring normal joint mechanics and eliminating the cycle of pain and cartilage damage. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition, which is graded I through IV. Here’s how we evaluate and treat each case.

1. Diagnosis & Grading

Our surgeon performs a thorough orthopedic examination and uses digital radiography to assess the degree of luxation, the condition of the joint, and any secondary changes. We assign a grade from I (mild) to IV (severe), which guides our treatment recommendation and the specific surgical approach.

2. The Surgical Procedure

Surgery typically combines one or more techniques tailored to your dog’s anatomy and grade of luxation. These may include deepening the trochlear groove of the femur so the kneecap seats securely; repositioning the tibial crest to correct patellar alignment; and tightening the joint capsule to stabilize the knee. The goal is to restore normal tracking of the patella and prevent future displacement.

3. Recovery & Return to Activity

Recovery from luxating patella surgery is typically 6 to 8 weeks of rest and restricted activity, with a gradual return to normal exercise. Most dogs return to full, pain-free function within a few months of surgery. Our team provides complete post-operative instructions and support throughout the recovery process.

4. Follow-Up Care

Scheduled rechecks and follow-up radiographs allow us to confirm the kneecap is tracking correctly and healing is progressing as expected. Our team is always available between visits to answer questions and support you through your dog’s recovery.

Understanding Luxating Patella, Grades & Treatment

The right treatment depends on the grade of your dog’s condition. Here’s what each grade means and what we typically recommend.

Grade I [MILD] Monitor & Manage: The kneecap can be manually moved out of place but returns to position on its own. Dogs at this grade often show no symptoms and surgery is not typically required. Weight management, joint support, and monitoring are recommended.

Grade II [MODERATE] Surgery Often Recommended: The patella occasionally slips on its own, causing intermittent lameness. While some Grade II cases can be managed conservatively, surgery is often recommended to prevent progression to Grade III or IV and to protect the joint from long-term damage.

Grade III [SIGNIFICANT] Surgery Recommended:
The kneecap is frequently or permanently out of position but can be manually replaced. Significant lameness is present. Surgery is strongly recommended to restore normal joint mechanics and prevent progressive arthritis and CCL injury.

Grade IV [SEVERE] Surgery Required: The kneecap is permanently dislocated and cannot be manually repositioned. The leg may be permanently rotated and the dog cannot fully extend the limb. Surgical correction is necessary and requires an experienced surgical team.

Dr. Farrell’s advice: Don’t wait for a mild case to become a severe one. Grades II, III, and IV benefit significantly from early surgical correction, delaying treatment allows cartilage damage and joint deformity to progress, making surgery more complex and recovery more difficult. A consultation is the best first step

Expertise Your Dog Deserves. Compassion Your Family Expects.

Animal Outpatient Surgery of San Diego is privately owned and operated – not a large corporate hospital. That means you get experienced surgeons, personal attention, and a team that genuinely cares about your pet’s outcome.

Dr. Paul Farrell

DVM · Owner & Founder

A native of Buffalo, NY, Dr. Farrell completed his veterinary degree at the University of Wisconsin and spent 6 years in large animal research at Cornell University before dedicating his career to small animal surgery. He founded Animal Outpatient Surgery of San Diego in 2016 to bring high-quality, affordable surgical care to San Diego and the surrounding communities.

25+

Years of Surgical Experience

1,000's

of Successful CCL Procedures

★★★★★

Google Rating / San Diego Pet Owners

Board-Certified Surgeons On Staff

In addition to Dr. Farrell, AOSSD is proud to have board-certified small animal surgeons (DACVS) available for complex cases, giving your dog access to the highest level of specialty surgical expertise.

Trusted by Fellow Veterinarians

Many of our patients are referred directly by San Diego-area veterinarians who trust AOSSD with their most complex surgical cases. That peer trust is one of our most meaningful credentials.

AVMA & SDCVMA Member Practice

Animal Outpatient Surgery is a proud member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the San Diego County Veterinary Medical Association (SDCVMA), reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of care.

State-of-the-Art Facility in Kearny Mesa

Our modern, purpose-built surgical center at 7280 Clairemont Mesa Blvd is equipped with digital radiography and advanced surgical technology — private practice quality at an accessible price point.

An Experienced, Dedicated Team

From our registered veterinary technicians to our client care coordinators, every member of our team brings years of specialized surgical experience and a genuine love for animals.

Three Simple Steps to Get Your Dog the Care They Need

We make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you and your pet.

1

Request Your Consultation

Complete the form on this page or call us at (858) 256-5551. Our team will reach out within one business day to schedule your visit and answer any initial questions.

2

Meet with Our Surgeon

During your consultation, our surgeon will perform a thorough orthopedic exam, review any existing imaging, and explain all treatment options clearly — so you feel confident and informed about next steps.

3

Surgery & Supported Recovery

Your dog’s surgery is performed in our modern, fully equipped facility. We provide complete post-operative instructions and follow-up care to support a successful recovery every step of the way.

Trusted by San Diego Pet Owners

We’re honored to be trusted by so many San Diego families. Here’s what some of our clients have shared about their experience with us.

“I can’t thank the team at Animal Outpatient Surgery and their great team enough, for the great and phenomenal work they did on our baby girl. They took her in on a emergency surgery when other vets weren’t confident in taking on the challenge. Their team and staff are nothing less then spectacular with great knowledge and confidence you want treating your loved pets. I would highly recommend anyone to consider Animal Outpatient Surgery for any of the needs and services for their pets.”

Audel C.
Google Review

“All of the staff at this facility are very pet oriented. It was difficult accepting that our pet needed TLPO knee surgery. Dr. Farrell explained the surgery in terms that we would totally understand what he would do to repair her knee. Very impressed with all layers of the staff there. We just got her clearance from her surgery. Very close to being like new again. I highly recommend this facility for surgeries your pet may require. Dr. Farrell and all of his staff are very compassionate and caring and competent to help your little fur balls get better.”

Cynthia Z.
Google Review

“Dr. Farrell spent a lot of time with us going through the procedure step by step and answering all of our questions thoroughly. The office staff is very easy to contact via text with questions during the recovery phase and very supportive. If our dog tears his other CCL (which is bound to happen), we will be right back at this same office for the next surgery!”

Lany Z.
Google Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my dog's luxating patella correct itself without surgery?

No, a luxating patella is a structural condition. The groove that guides the kneecap is too shallow, or the alignment of the leg is abnormal. These are anatomical issues that do not self-correct. Without treatment, repeated slipping of the kneecap causes progressive cartilage wear and worsening pain. Grades III and IV always require surgery. Lower grades may also benefit from surgical correction depending on how frequently symptoms occur.

How long is recovery after luxating patella surgery?

Most dogs require 6 to 8 weeks of restricted activity following surgery, with a gradual return to normal exercise during that period. This is significantly shorter than TPLO recovery. Most dogs return to full, comfortable function within a few months, and dogs whose surgery is performed before significant arthritis develops have an excellent prognosis.

Is surgery always necessary for a luxating patella?

Not for every dog. Grade I cases with minimal or no symptoms can often be monitored and managed conservatively with weight control and joint supplements. Grade II cases that cause recurring lameness are typically best addressed surgically to prevent progression to a more severe grade. Grades III and IV require surgical intervention. Our surgeon will give you a clear, honest recommendation based on your dog’s individual exam findings.

Which breeds are most commonly affected by luxating patella?

Small and toy breeds are most commonly affected, including Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Pugs, Miniature Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Maltese. Larger breeds including Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Akitas can also develop the condition. In large breed dogs, the condition tends to be more complex and may involve additional orthopedic issues.

Can my dog develop this in both legs?

Yes, luxating patella is often a bilateral condition, meaning both rear legs may be affected either simultaneously or at different times. During your consultation, our surgeon evaluates both knees and will let you know if both require attention or if one is significantly more affected. When both legs need surgery, procedures are typically staged so your dog can recover one leg at a time.

Does a luxating patella increase the risk of a CCL tear?

It can. The abnormal joint mechanics caused by a luxating patella place added stress on the cruciate ligament over time. Untreated patellar luxation is considered a risk factor for CCL injury — another reason early evaluation and treatment are important for your dog’s long-term joint health.