Luxating Patella in English Bulldogs: Symptoms & Care Tips

Posted by

Tanja

On January 7, 2025

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Widely popular for their grumpy faces and affectionate natures, English bulldogs are one of the breeds that are prone to a large number of health issues. Unfortunately, luxating patella in English bulldogs is one of those conditions that you would never want to happen to your dog.

Luxating patella is generally estimated to affect up to 7% of all dogs, but for English bulldogs, the prevalence may be significantly higher due to their genetic predisposition, body structure, and bowed legs.

What is Luxating Patella in English Bulldogs?

Luxating patella in English bulldogs is when the kneecap, the little bone at the front of the knee, pops out of place. Normally the kneecap sits in a groove and moves up and down smoothly when your dog walks or runs. But in bulldogs with this condition, the kneecap can pop out of that groove and they’ll limp or even hop on three legs.

This happens a lot in English bulldogs because of how they’re built. Their stout bodies and slightly bowed legs put extra pressure on their knees which makes it easier for the kneecap to slide out of position. You’ll notice your dog skipping steps, limping or holding up one of their back legs – it’s their way of saying ouch or ow!

If left untreated it can lead to bigger problems like arthritis or being unable to walk. The good news is it’s treatable! Whether it’s through weight management, physical therapy or surgery for more severe cases, there are ways to help your bulldog be comfortable and happy.

How to Know if My Bulldog Suffers from Luxating Patella

Spotting luxating patella in your English bulldog early is key to managing it effectively. Here are some signs that might indicate your furry friend is dealing with this condition:

Intermittent Limping: Your bulldog might suddenly start limping and then seem fine shortly after. This could happen because the kneecap pops out of place and then slides back in.
Skipping Steps: If your dog occasionally skips a step or hops on three legs, it might be a way of compensating for knee discomfort.
Difficulty Standing Up or Jumping: Bulldogs with a luxating patella may find it hard to jump onto furniture or rise after lying down.
Swelling or Stiffness Around the Knee: If you gently examine your dog’s leg, you might notice some swelling or stiffness.
Reluctance to Walk or Play: Pain from a luxating patella can make your dog less enthusiastic about activities they normally enjoy.

If you suspect your bulldog has a luxating patella, it’s best to consult your vet for a proper diagnosis. They can determine the severity and recommend treatment options.

How Many Grades of Luxating Patella in English Bulldogs Are There?

Vets classify luxating patella into 4 grades. Here’s a breakdown:

Grade 1: The kneecap pops out occasionally but goes back on its own. This is the mildest and usually causes no pain.
Grade 2: The kneecap pops out more often and needs to be manually adjusted back in. Your dog may limp or show occasional pain.
Grade 3: The kneecap is out of place permanently but can be manually adjusted back in. Dogs with Grade 3 luxation are in a lot of discomfort and mobility issues.
Grade 4: The kneecap is permanently dislocated and can’t be manually adjusted. This is the worst and usually needs surgery to fix.

Knowing the grade of luxation helps guide treatment. Early intervention for mild cases can prevent it from getting worse.

Can Luxating Patella in Dogs Fix Itself?

One of the most common questions dog owners ask is if luxating patella can fix itself. The short answer? Nope.

In mild cases (Grade 1), the symptoms may seem to come and go and owners may think the problem has gone away. But the underlying issue—the structural abnormality of the knee—doesn’t heal without intervention. Over time it can get worse if left untreated.

Some dogs may adapt to minor luxations without any discomfort but ongoing wear and tear on the knee joint can lead to arthritis. That’s why even mild cases should be monitored and lifestyle adjusted to minimize stress on the knees.

What Happens If Luxating Patella Is Left Untreated?

Not addressing a luxating patella can be bad news for your bulldog. Here’s what can happen:

Chronic Pain: As the kneecap keeps slipping out of place it can cause irritation and inflammation and pain.
Arthritis: The abnormal movement of the kneecap accelerates wear and tear on the joint and causes arthritis. This is irreversible and can greatly reduce your dog’s quality of life.
Loss of Mobility: In severe cases, untreated luxating patella can cause loss of mobility. Your bulldog may struggle to walk, run or even stand.
Muscle Atrophy: To avoid using the affected leg your dog may unintentionally overuse the other legs and cause muscle loss in the unused leg.
Compensatory Issues: Overcompensation can put stress on other parts of your dog’s body and cause problems in the hips, back, or other legs.

Can You Treat a Luxating Patella Without Surgery?

The good news is that surgery isn’t always necessary for luxating patella. Non-surgical treatments are often effective for mild to moderate cases (Grade 1 and sometimes Grade 2). Here are some options:

Weight Management: Keeping your bulldog at a healthy weight reduces stress on their knees. Even a few extra pounds can make a big difference.
Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the knee can help stabilize the joint. Exercises like controlled walking, hydrotherapy, or supervised play can be beneficial.
Joint Supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can support joint health and reduce inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory Medications: Your vet might prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and swelling.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid activities that put stress on your bulldog’s knees, like jumping or running on hard surfaces.

While these methods can help manage the condition, they don’t “cure” luxating patella. For more severe cases (Grade 3 and 4), surgery is often the best option to restore mobility and reduce pain.

Using a Special Knee Brace

Using a special leg band or brace designed for dogs with luxating patella can be an excellent way to manage the condition, especially for mild to moderate cases. These bands, also called knee braces or support wraps, are specifically designed to provide stability, reduce discomfort, and prevent the kneecap from dislocating further.

Benefits of Using a Dog Knee Brace for Luxating Patella:

Improved Joint Stability: The brace keeps the kneecap in place, reducing unnecessary movement that can worsen the condition.
Pain Relief: By stabilizing the joint, the brace alleviates pressure on the surrounding tissues, offering pain relief.
Enhanced Mobility: Your dog may feel more confident walking, running, or playing with the added support.
Prevention of Further Damage: Regular use can reduce the risk of arthritis or other long-term complications.

What to Look for in a Dog Knee Brace:

When choosing a knee brace for your bulldog, consider the following:

Adjustable Fit: Bulldogs have unique body shapes, so a customizable fit is essential.
Comfortable Material: Look for soft, breathable, and non-restrictive materials that won’t irritate their skin.
Veterinarian Approval: Ensure the brace is recommended or approved by a vet to guarantee it’s suitable for your dog’s condition.
Durability: Bulldogs can be active, so the brace should withstand daily wear and tear.

Preventing Luxating Patella in English Bulldogs

While you can’t change your bulldog’s genetics, there are steps you can take to reduce their risk of developing luxating patella or prevent it from worsening:

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts unnecessary pressure on your dog’s joints.
Provide Joint Support Early: Start joint supplements as a preventative measure, especially if your bulldog is predisposed to knee issues.
Exercise Smartly: Regular, low-impact exercise helps build muscle without stressing the knees.
Regular Vet Checkups: Early detection of knee issues can prevent them from progressing to more severe stages.

Wrapping It Up

Luxating patella is a common but manageable condition in English bulldogs. By understanding the signs, severity, and treatment options, you can take proactive steps to ensure your pup stays happy and mobile. Whether it’s through non-surgical methods or, in severe cases, surgery, addressing this condition early can make all the difference.