Luxating Patellas

[Shakti]

A friend of mine is purchasing a small breed dog and the breeder has contacted her to tell her that she has been diagnosed as having luxating patellas at 6 weeks. She has offered to reduce the price of the bitch puppy but hasn't really given my friend much more info.

How serious is this condition? They are not planning to breed or show the pup - she is to be a pet only.

What are the likely long-term affects?

[ellz]

A lot will depend upon the breed and the severity of the luxation. If it is just a case of mild slips, then long term, there may be no real impact on the dog.

If however it is a major problem, then the owner of the dog could be in for some VERY hefty vet bills down the track because serious luxation does generally require surgical intervention of some kind.

[Shakti]

Unfortunately I have no idea how severe it is. Could mild luxation be detected at only 6 weeks? The puppy is a CKCS

[Gretel]

When the pups are taken to the vet for vaccination the vet usually checks knees. I have had one or two over the years that have been slightly loose at that stage but have tightened up. Of course there is no way to know if this will happen or not. I think your friend really should consider that it might be the worst case scenario and require surgery in future. Surgery is rather costly so a small discount in the price of the pup wouldn't go very far if surgery is needed down the track.

[Shakti]

Thanks so much for your advice guys. I will pass it on to my friend!