Dog hops on three legs – could it be a luxating patella?

📞 Orthopedic appointment booking: 010 739 9130

📍 Sacrum Animal Hospital, Porttisuontie 13, 01200 Vantaa

Quick answer: If your dog occasionally hops on three legs and then continues normally, it could be a luxating patella. Recurring symptoms should be investigated, even if your dog otherwise seems well.

Patellar luxation is common, especially in small dogs, but it can also occur in other breeds. The symptom may initially be brief and transient.

When to see a vet?

Contact your vet if any of the following apply:

• Your dog repeatedly hops on three legs or skips with its hind leg
• The lameness persists or worsens.
• Your dog is in pain or avoids moving.
• It's a young, growing dog.

What could be causing the symptom?

1. Mild patellar luxation

The patella slips out of place and returns, causing the dog to skip a step.

2. More severe luxation

If the patella remains dislocated or causes pain, surgical treatment may be necessary.

3. Other knee problems

A cruciate ligament injury or joint pain can also cause similar lameness.

What can you do at home?

• Note when the symptom appears.
• Avoid strenuous activity if your dog is limping.
• Schedule an examination if the symptom recurs.

What does the vet do?

The vet will examine the kneecap's movement, the knee's structure, and any potential pain, and will assess the need for treatmentand further examinations.

Sacrum Animal Hospital can help

If you are unsure about the severity of the symptom, it's better to contact us than to wait and observe the situation for too long. A professional can help assess whether it's an emergency or if an appointment can be scheduled.

📞 Orthopedic appointments: 010 739 9130

📍 Sacrum Animal Hospital, Porttisuontie 13, 01200 Vantaa