Expert: English Bulldogs ( Marie ) e-mail me at mpmaltese@gmail.com - 4/10/2008

Question
my bulldog puppy is about 5 months old.  I noticed she wasn't placing any
weight on her back right leg.  When she would stand, she would cross her back
legs like she is striking a pose.  She also was playing rough with our neighbor
dog.  It doesn't seem like it hurts her because when I'm putting pressure on
it ...it doesn't bother her.  What do you think it can be?

Answer
Hi Fred - I know what it is... She has pulled the patella - it is called a luxating patella.  Just the fact that you mentioned " strike a pose", the patella comes to mind.

Don't worry! Many times a dog can experience this and not need surgery.  Only levels ( grade 4 and 5 need surgical intervention).

I would go to the vet and have them take an x-tra.  They can also order some medications to reduce the internal swelling.  When your baby was stretching the leg back she was trying to pop in back into place.  Your vet can show you how to do this for her.

Again, don't worry right now... Just get it looked at.



Best of Luck
Marie of NuVET Plus
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