What is a luxating patella?
A luxating patella is a condition affecting the kneecap, where the bone dislocates or moves out of its normal position. There are various grades of a luxating patella, based on what causes the patella to move and how stable the joint is. Sometimes dogs develop a traumatic luxation, where they injure themselves and cause the condition acutely, but in most circumstances the cause is congenital or developmental. Yorkies (and other small breeds) are notorious for this condition, such that your yorkie's evaluation at the vet will usually involve checking for luxation.
What are the signs?
Depending on the grade of luxation, your yorkie may or may not have symptoms. The most common sign of luxating patella is "skipping", when your yorkie suddenly starts carrying the affected limb for a few steps before returning to a normal gait.
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