Luxating patella — a kneecap that slides out of its normal groove — is the single most common orthopaedic problem in Pomeranians. Studies suggest that up to 30 % of small-breed dogs are affected to some degree. The good news: when caught early and managed correctly, most Poms with this condition live full, happy lives. This guide covers everything you need to know, from the four clinical grades to treatment options and prevention through responsible breeding.
What Is Luxating Patella?
The patella (kneecap) normally sits in a groove at the front of the femur and glides up and down when the leg bends and straightens. In a dog with luxating patella, the groove is too shallow or the surrounding ligaments are misaligned, allowing the kneecap to slip sideways — usually towards the inside of the leg (medial luxation). When the kneecap is out of place the dog cannot extend the knee properly, which causes the characteristic “skipping” gait many owners notice.
Why Are Pomeranians Predisposed?
Pomeranians tick several risk boxes. Their small body size means the femoral groove is naturally shallower. Selective breeding for compact, short legs can worsen the angle at which the quadriceps muscle pulls on the kneecap. Add genetic factors inherited from parents, and the odds increase significantly. That is why screening breeding dogs is so important — more on that below.
The 4 Grades of Luxating Patella
Veterinarians classify the severity on a scale from Grade 1 (mildest) to Grade 4 (most severe):
| Grade | Description | Typical Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | Kneecap can be manually pushed out but returns on its own | Occasional skip in gait; often no pain |
| Grade 2 | Kneecap luxates spontaneously, can be repositioned manually or pops back by itself | Intermittent lameness, sudden leg lifting during walks |
| Grade 3 | Kneecap is out of the groove most of the time; can be pushed back but slips out again | Persistent lameness, abnormal gait, reluctance to jump |
| Grade 4 | Kneecap is permanently dislocated and cannot be repositioned | Constant lameness, bow-legged stance, significant pain |
Many Pomeranians with Grade 1 never progress beyond it. Grade 2 is the “watch-and-manage” stage. Grades 3 and 4 usually require surgical correction.
Symptoms to Watch For
Early detection makes a real difference. Keep an eye out for:
- Skipping or hopping gait — the dog suddenly lifts one hind leg for a few strides, then walks normally again.
- Sudden leg lifting — your Pom stops, extends the leg behind them for a moment, then continues walking.
- Reluctance to jump — on or off furniture, in and out of the car.
- Stiffness after rest — particularly noticeable on cold mornings.
- Sitting to the side — instead of sitting squarely, the dog tucks one leg out to the side.
Diagnosis
A vet can usually diagnose luxating patella with a physical examination — gently manipulating the kneecap while the dog is relaxed. X-rays may be taken to assess the depth of the femoral groove, check for arthritis and rule out other conditions such as cruciate ligament damage. No blood test or advanced imaging is typically needed for a straightforward diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Conservative management (Grades 1-2):
- Weight management — keeping your Pomeranian at a lean body weight reduces stress on the knees.
- Joint supplements — glucosamine and chondroitin can support cartilage health.
- Low-impact exercise — regular short walks and controlled play to maintain muscle tone without jarring the joint.
- Anti-inflammatory medication — for flare-ups, your vet may prescribe NSAIDs.
Surgical correction (Grades 3-4, or Grade 2 with frequent episodes):
The most common procedure deepens the femoral groove (trochleoplasty) and realigns the attachment point of the patellar ligament. Success rates are high — around 90 % of dogs regain normal or near-normal function. Surgery costs in Europe typically range from € 1 500 to € 3 000 per knee, depending on the complexity and whether both knees need correction.
Recovery After Surgery
Most dogs begin putting weight on the leg within a few days. Full recovery takes 8 to 12 weeks and involves strict rest, short leash walks only and gradual return to normal activity. Physiotherapy can speed recovery and rebuild muscle strength. Your vet will schedule check-ups at two, six and twelve weeks post-surgery.
Prevention Through Responsible Breeding
The most effective way to reduce luxating patella in Pomeranians is to breed only from dogs that have been screened clear. At Woefkesranch, every breeding dog undergoes a veterinary patella examination before being included in our programme. Dogs graded above Grade 0 are excluded. By testing generation after generation, we work towards healthier knee joints in every litter.
Living with a Pom with Luxating Patella
A diagnosis of luxating patella is not the end of the world. Many Pomeranians with Grade 1 or 2 live comfortably for years with simple lifestyle adjustments — maintaining a healthy weight, providing ramps instead of stairs where possible, and using joint supplements. Regular vet check-ups (every 6 – 12 months) help catch any progression early.
If you are considering adding a Pomeranian to your family and want to minimise the risk of luxating patella, choosing a breeder who health-tests their dogs is the single best step you can take. Contact Woefkesranch to learn about our health testing protocols and upcoming litters.
