Patellar Luxation in Chihuahuas: What You Should Know

Chihuahua with a luxating patella walking outside in the grass

Does your Chihuahua hold up or “favor” one of his hind legs when walking? While bodily injury can cause Chihuahuas to hop rather than walk on all fours, another possible explanation is patellar luxation. It’s a common orthopedic condition in Chihuahuas. A study conducted by researchers in Sweden found that 23% of Chihuahuas were affected by it.

What Is Patellar Luxation?

Patellar luxation is an orthopedic condition that’s characterized by the kneecap slipping out of the femoral groove. It’s a risk factor for osteoarthritis. As the kneecap constantly slips in and out of the femoral groove, the cartilage in this groove will wear down.

The kneecap is also known as the patella. It’s a mostly flat and round bone. The kneecap supports the surrounding muscles, tendons and ligaments while simultaneously protecting the knee joint from trauma.

The kneecap normally sits in a shallow cartilage-lined groove at the bottom of the femur. Even when Chihuahuas stretch their legs, all of their kneecaps will typically remain within the groove of the respective femur. Patellar luxation, however, involves the kneecap sleeping out of this groove. The term “luxation” refers to the dislocation of an anatomical feature. In patellar luxation, the kneecap becomes dislocated by sipping out of the femoral groove.

Patellar luxation can occur in all dogs, but it’s particularly common in toy breeds. In addition to the Chihuahua, other breeds at risk for patellar luxation include:

  • Affenpinscher
  • Australian Terrier
  • Bichon Frise
  • Boston Terrier
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
  • Cocker Spaniel
  • Dachshund
  • English Bulldog
  • French Bulldog
  • Havanese
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Maltese
  • Miniature Pinscher
  • Miniature Poodle
  • Pomeranian
  • Pug
  • Shih Tzu
  • Silky Terrier
  • Toy Poodle
  • Yorkshire Terrier

Medial vs Lateral Luxation: What’s the Difference?

Patellar luxation can be classified as medial or lateral depending on the direction in which the kneecap slips. When the kneecap slips inward toward the Chihuahua’s body, it’s classified as medial luxation. When the kneecap slips outward away from the Chihuahua’s body, it’s classified as lateral luxation.

As shown in the illustration below, the kneecap is connected to the patellar ligament. Contraction of the thigh muscles will create a pulling force on the patellar ligament, which in turn moves the kneecap. In a normal knee, the kneecap will continue to move up and down in the femoral groove as the Chihuahua contracts and relaxes his thigh muscles. In a knee with patellar luxation, it will move medially or laterally.

Illustration of luxating patella in Chihuahuas
Illustration showing the anatomy of a normal knee in a Chihuahua compared to a knee with medial luxation and a knee with lateral luxation.

Most cases of patellar luxation in Chihuahuas involve medial slippage. The Chihuahua’s kneecap slips medially toward his body. But some cases of patellar luxation involve lateral slippage, and there are Chihuahuas with patellar luxation that experience both medial and lateral slippage (bilateral).

The 4 Grades of Patellar Luxation

There are four Grades of patellar luxation depending on the severity. Grade 1 patellar luxation is the least severe, whereas Grade 4 is the most severe.

  • Grade 1: The kneecap only slips out of the femoral groove when manual pressure is applied. It’s accompanied by minor rotation of the tibia. The kneecap returns to its original position in the femoral groove when the pressure is released.
  • Grade 2: The most common type of patellar luxation, Grade 2 involves the kneecap occasionally slipping out of the femoral groove as the Chihuahua walks or otherwise contracts his thigh muscles. It’s accompanied by up to 30 degrees of tibial crest torsion.
  • Grade 3: The kneecap has become permanently dislocated. It no longer stays in the femoral groove. Instead, the kneecap remains luxated. It’s accompanied by 30 to 50 degrees of tibial crest torsion. The femoral groove has typically flattened to the point where it no longer supports the kneecap. If the kneecap is manually manipulated back into the femoral groove, it will slip out on its own.
  • Grade 4: The most severe — and fortunately the rarest — type of patellar luxation, Grade 4 involves the permanent and extreme dislocation of the kneecap. It’s accompanied by 50 to 90 degrees of tibial crest torsion. The femoral groove has either flattened or developed a convex shape. The kneecap won’t return to the formal groove, nor can it be manually manipulated back into this groove.

Which Legs Are Affected?

Chihuahua with hind legs affect by patellar luxation

Only the hind legs are affected by patellar luxation. Some Chihuahuas experience patellar luxation in a single hind leg, whereas others experience this mobility-restricting condition in both of their hind legs. Regardless, their forelegs should continue to function normally by retaining their kneecaps to their femoral grooves; the kneecap will only slip out of place in one or both of their hind legs.

Signs and Symptoms of Patellar Luxation

Like with other medical conditions, the signs and symptoms of patellar luxation will vary depending on the severity. Chihuahuas with Grade 1 patellar luxation may not exhibit any visible signs or symptoms. They are typically asymptomatic, though some of them may occasionally skip while walking.

In more severe cases of patellar luxation, you may notice the following signs and symptoms:

  • Walking while holding up a hind leg
  • Shaking the affected hind leg before placing pressure on it again
  • A “knock-knee” posture in which both hind legs tilt inward at the knees
  • A “bow-legged” posture in which the knees of the hind legs are spaced apart but the paws are close together
  • Reluctance to jump
  • Unable to bend the affected knee
  • Lower energy levels
  • Whelping, whimpering or other signs of pain
  • In Grade 4 and Grade 5 patellar luxation, complete lameness of a hind leg when walking
Most Chihuahuas that are born with patellar luxation don’t exhibit any clinical signs at birth. A veterinarian, though, can help determine whether a pup has a luxating patella or if the pup is at risk for developing a luxating patella.

Causes of Patellar Luxation

Most cases of patellar luxation in Chihuahuas involve genetic abnormalities. When compared to larger breeds, Chihuahuas and other toy breeds are more likely to be born with abnormalities that predispose them to this orthopedic condition.

Chihuahuas may be born with an abnormally shallow femoral groove, for instance. There must be a certain amount of depth to the femoral groove for it to hold the kneecap. If it’s too shallow, the kneecap will easily slip out.

Misalignment of the patellar ligament and the femoral groove is a common cause of patellar luxation in Chihuahuas. The patellar ligament should be center to the tibia and femur. Some Chihuahuas are born with a misaligned patellar ligament that’s off-center to the tibia and femur. Other Chihuahuas may develop this same type of misalignment as their bodies grow.

Injury to the knee can cause patellar luxation in Chihuahuas. Any form of blunt-force trauma to the knee may damage the patellar ligament. If the patellar ligament becomes torn or loose, it may not keep the kneecap in the femoral groove. It’s not as common as generic abnormalities like a shallow femoral groove or misalignment of the patellar ligament, but injury to the knee can still cause patellar luxation.

Diagnosis for Patellar Luxation

Veterinarians may use a variety of methods to diagnose patellar luxation in Chihuahuas. An orthopedic examination can provide insight into knee function. During an orthopedic examination, the veterinarian will examine the Chihuahua’s walking gait, range of motion and joint extensions. 

In addition to an orthopedic examination, veterinarians may use medical imaging as part of the diagnosis process. X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans can reveal images of the Chihuahua’s knee structure. Veterinarians may use X-rays or CT scans to look for abnormalities of the tibia, femoral groove or other parts of the knee.

In recent years, veterinarians have begun to use ultrasound to diagnose patellar luxation in Chihuahuas. Ultrasound is an imaging technique that involves the use of sound waves. Sound waves with an ultrasonic frequency are used to create images of the inside of a person’s or animal’s body.

When diagnosing patellar luxation, veterinarians may use ultrasound to look for cartilage damage. The femoral groove is lined with cartilage. There’s essentially a layer of soft cartilage to prevent the knee cap from directly touching the femur. Chihuahuas with patellar luxation may have little or no cartilage remaining in the femoral groove, which is something veterinarians can check by performing an ultrasound.

Treatment for Patellar Luxation

A pair of Chihuahuas with healthy knees sitting outside in a field of grass

Treatment for patellar luxation may include any combination of physiotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes and surgery. Physiotherapy is designed to strengthen the muscles in the hind legs. As patellar luxation becomes progressively worse, Chihuahuas may no longer place their body weight on one or both of their hind legs. This can lead to muscle loss.

Physiotherapy can strengthen the Chihuahua’s leg muscles so that he can better control the affected hind leg or legs. Because it involves physical activity, such as stretching and flexing, physiotherapy should only be performed under the guidance of a veterinary professional. Veterinary professionals can closely monitor the Chihuahua during the physiotherapy regimen to promote a positive prognosis.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like carprofen and firocoxib are commonly used to treat patellar luxation. Patellar luxation is almost always accompanied by inflammation. The femoral groove contains cartilage to prevent bone-on-bone contact. Rather than touching the femur, the kneecap will move up and down in this cartilage-lined groove.

With patellar luxation, the kneecap will slip medially or laterally. It will essentially “pop out” of the femoral groove, which can cause the cartilage to wear down. The kneecap will then rub against the femur. The bone-on-bone contact between the kneecap and the femur can cause inflammation. NSAIDs are a class of medications that suppress the body’s inflammation response and, thus, reduce swelling.

Veterinarians may prescribe analgesics in conjunction with NSAIDs. Analgesics are designed to reduce pain. They can ease the symptoms of patellar luxation and improve the Chihuahua’s quality of life.

Some veterinarians may recommend lifestyle changes as part of their treatment strategy. If the Chihuahua is overweight, veterinarians may recommend reducing his caloric intake and/or switching to a different type of food. Veterinarians may also recommend joint supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine as part of their treatment strategy.

Surgery for Patellar Luxation

Chihuahua recovering from patellar luxation surgery

Chihuahuas suffering from Grade 3 or Grade 4 patellar luxation may be candidates for surgery. There are different surgical procedures used to treat patellar luxation, but nearly all of them have the same primary objective: to keep the kneecap in the femoral groove at all times.

One of the most common surgical procedures for patellar luxation is trochleoplasty. It involves deepening the femoral or “trochlear” groove. An abnormally shallow femoral groove may not retain the kneecap. A veterinary surgeon, though, can deepen this groove with trochleoplasty.

Patellar luxation may occur if the femur is abnormally shaped, which may be treated with corrective surgery on the femur. The veterinary surgeon may cut and reshape the femur during this procedure.

Tissue reconstruction is a surgical procedure for patellar luxation. If the soft tissue connected to a Chihuahua’s kneecap is too loose or too tight, it may allow the kneecap to slip out of place. During a tissue reconstruction surgery, the veterinary surgeon can correct the problematic tissue.

Some cases of patellar luxation are treated by surgically moving the attachment point of the patellar ligament. In a normal knee, the attachment point is center to the tibia. In cases of patellar luxation, the attachment point is often located to the side of the tibia. Tibial tubercle transposition is a surgical procedure that involves moving the attachment point of the patellar ligament so that it’s aligned with the tibia.

Video of 3-Pound Chihuahua With Patellar Luxation

Tips for Managing Your Chihuahua’s Patellar Luxation

Following the veterinarian’s recommendations is essential to a positive prognosis. A licensed veterinarian can properly diagnose patellar luxation, and he or she can recommend a treatment strategy to alleviate this orthopedic condition. In addition to this professional advice, however, you should consider the following tips to better manage your Chihuahua’s patellar luxation.

  • Invest in an orthopedic bed to reduce pressure on his knees and joints.
  • Provide your Chihuahua with doggy ramps so that he can access furniture and other elevated surfaces without jumping.
  • When picking up your Chihuahua, hold him underneath the torso without placing pressure on his knees.
  • Consider an orthopedic knee brace. Orthopedic knee braces are semi-elastic sleeves that are designed to support and stabilize the knees.
  • Encourage your Chihuahua to walk. Forcing him to lie in a bed all day long can worsen his patellar luxation by contributing to muscle loss. Short, gentle walks, on the other hand, will promote stronger leg muscles.
  • Place rugs or mats on hard flooring surfaces so that your Chihuahua has better traction.
  • Monitor your Chihuahua during walks and playtime while taking note of any changes in his gait. If his gait worsens — he always skips, can longer place pressure on a hind leg, whelps in pain, etc. — inform the veterinarian.

In Conclusion

Patellar luxation is an orthopedic condition that involves the kneecap slipping out of the femoral groove. It can affect a single hind leg or both hind legs. Regardless, the Chihuahua’s forelegs should continue to function normally.

References:

https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/patellar-luxations

https://www.dovepress.com/patellar-luxation-in-dogs-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-VMRR

Comments

    • Vikki
    • August 30, 2021
    Reply

    I noticed that 2 weeks after a new higher bed was put in the bedroom my Chihuahua started limping with its 2 hind legs and licking them. I will try to put something in front of the bed so he can climb instead of jump.

    • Consernd mom
    • May 21, 2021
    Reply

    It’s the middle of the night and my chihuahua is in pain when she moves while lying down it appears to be her front legs I can’t do anything to help her right now just asking any one know anything about what might be happening. She is only about 8 years old

    • Tammy Barbour
    • February 23, 2021
    Reply

    We take our 10 yr old chihuahua to an animal hospital on Wednesday for his first leg to be operated on. Then the other will be done once that one heals. We are blessed to be financially able to pay out of pocket for this. It’s only $800.00 per leg. We took this dog in when he was a 1 yr old. He has gone downhill with his ability to walk. If I couldn’t fix my dogs legs financially, I’d go to every animal advocate to get him help. An animal is not something you put down just for your own financial issues…you at least try. If your dog goes down, for Gods sake, go down fighting for it!!! Ppl, for Gods sake, don’t take a pet in if you can’t take care of it. They have hearts, value, and feelings.

      • Tina
      • January 1, 2023
      Reply

      ❤️ I hope your furbaby is doing better. Our 11 yr old Chihuahua Lily has a patella injury also, she also has a bad heart murmur that she’s on meds for life for. She’s in pain. She recently had like 4 seizures. We pit her on cbd oil and it stopped but. She is still hurting. We can tell. Vet tomorrow again. She barely eats. So worried that we cried today for her. I love what you said on ppl. Im with you on that. ❤️

    • Myra Ellen LillyGillespie
    • March 20, 2020
    Reply

    My 8 year old chi would yip when I touched his belly when he was about 3 The vet diagnosed the knee dislocation and the belly yip was a way to let me know something was wrong. Maybe he just hurt and didn’t localize it well. My vet taught me to relocate it. Izzy has learned to pop it in on his own. When I watch him walk from behind I see that his thigh muscle has atrophied because of guarding. He walks a little sideways. BUT HE LOVES TO RUN. He splints like a greyhound in perfect form—not sideways. A Chi is smart and strong. Surgery is not always the answer. At 8, he is as active as a 2 year old.

      • Marie
      • February 22, 2022
      Reply

      Just reading your post has given me some hope. My poor gal has been bunny-hopping for a while, but today couldn’t even extend her hind leg. Hate to know she’s hurting.

      • Leslie
      • September 18, 2022
      Reply

      Thank you. Mine was diagnosed after a yelp for a few days and limp for a few steps only.
      He has gotten aggressive with me and I didn’t think he was in pain.
      Why would my sweet dog go crazy on me?
      I’m afraid and after the craziness he got on all fours and was back and tight bodied. I feel so sorry. Four days he’s been subservient and I’m thinking geez. Was he trying to say he was in pain? The last time when waking he cuddles with me as routine goes on his back and I rub him. Only to feel he had morning arousal and swiftly moving my hand away felt it touch his lipstick less than a second. Was he startled, or think I meant to hurt him?
      If I hurt him he yelps. Like when I brush his teeth, and doesn’t get aggressive.
      I love my three year old chihuahua and I may have startled him and he really shocked me.
      He’s done it before after the knee incident. When I touched his ear, he growled and I couldn’t believe it and touched the other to see if he was hurt there and he got aggressive twice with the ears.
      My Vet said I may need a new companion!!!
      Isn’t there a better answer?
      Has a vaccine created this or my backyard is moldy in Louisiana.
      Can it be a mental issue and if yes can it be helped.
      Someone please help!
      Thank you kindly.

    • Nadia
    • September 8, 2019
    Reply

    My dog is suffering from this just found out when I took him for his visit for a dry cough turns out he had also a yeast infection in one ear and I asked Vet about his knee because he kept making like a clicking sound well it could be he said it was stage for considering surgery but want to find out anything else I can do before going that route just like you said I would do anything for my fur babies

    • Essie
    • April 19, 2019
    Reply

    I have a blue female chihuahua. She doesn’t feel pain it is very strange. At first only one of her knees would pop out but now both of them take turns popping out. It only happens when she runs but it doesn’t slow her down. She will 3 leg it wagging her tail and happy as normal! She has learned how to sit down to pop it back in place. Our vet said as long it’s not causing her any problems then there is no need in doing surgery. When she was younger she had 2 puppies in the middle of my and my husband’s bed. She didn’t make a single sound while delivering her puppies. The only way we knew she was in labor was because of the way she started breathing and her stomach would tighten up. We stayed up all night helping her deliver them. She also has a problem with when she gets excited and drinks she starts coughing really bad and will spit up some of the water she just drank. Our vet said he has never seen a chihuahua her color before (he’s in his late 60’s early 70’s) he said most of her problems is her genetics because of how people breed them to get her color. We have NEVER heard her yelp or cry in pain. Has anyone else ever had one that doesn’t feel pain?

      • Jennifer
      • November 18, 2022
      Reply

      I have never heard my chi yelp or cry in pain either. I asked the vet if there was something wrong with her. She doesn’t bark either. It’s so strange but she just started limping and walking on 3 legs. I M so scared and I don’t know how to pay for the appointment. I know it’s going to be expensive but I can’t see her like this. I know she is uncomfortable

      • Sheré
      • January 25, 2023
      Reply

      My chihuahua puppy is almost 3lbs and she never barks or when she’s hurt never makes a sound. It’s strange cause her knee poops in and out of the socket all the time but she never makes a sound. I thought something was wrong with her up until now.

    • Char
    • April 9, 2019
    Reply

    Go to vet & have checked out! I got talked into putting my dachshund through back surgery as she started collapsing on rear legs. The surgeon said he had a very positive feeling she would walk—I should have put her down before any surgery—she endured so many bladder infections—she didn’t want to use her cart she preferred scooting her hindquarters to move—developed a big mushroom-like bump on her underside & vet suggested another surgery to remove it. She ended up not able to balance when sitting as the bump helped balance & movement—-so many in between vet visits expensive test—but the poor thing just went really fast —-poor thing had to have me express her urine several times a day —in looking over all her health file that I kept copies of that little girl had over $30,000 in trying to keep her— she tried so hard to be normal & loving but I vowed I would never put my future pets through a lifestyle like that again—-so if my chi gets so down with her legs in constant pain — I will confer with vet & if need be to put her down — I will ask the vet to give the shot so she won’t have to suffer in pain & agony! Know many of you disagree but I know I love my cuddle bug & that she loves us!

    • Shelley Schniepp Thraen
    • August 28, 2017
    Reply

    Supplements for subluxating patella. Are there any that help?

      • Allen C Hixenbaugh
      • February 1, 2023
      Reply

      Did you find any supplements that helped/ Thanks for reply.

    • Lee Matteau
    • August 26, 2017
    Reply

    Thanks, that really helped. I have one income and 2 dogs and my 13 yr old chi is not getting surgery. He is hopping around on 3 legs and does not appear to be in pain.

    • Mike Rinaldi
    • August 25, 2017
    Reply

    My Chi mix has had this Grade II on her right read leg since we got her 14 months ago. This week she fell off the passenger car seat (12″ fall) and now it seems like her left knee has the same problem. At some point we will consider surgery. Can someone tell me the success rate and side effects of healing. Length of healing… Also, what does this type of surgery cost?

    Thanks! Our cute chi-mix would like it’s mobile life back and any help with these questions would be very much appreciated.

      • Sue
      • January 10, 2018
      Reply

      Hi Mike
      We have a pomeranian/chihuahua mix (Lilly) who has had both her legs done. In 2012 cost $1700 & 2015 $1750. There was a check-up after 3 days & sutures out after 10 days. Very limited exercise for 8 weeks with care that all exercise was on a leash, on good surfaces and on flat ground. No steps, running or jumping on or off furniture. Lilly was a good patient who didn’t chew at her stitches – but it was heartbreaking to see such a tiny girl enduring so much. In sympathy with her condition we lowered our bed to the floor so she could be with us for comfort…. she got through both ops and recovered well – that is until arthritis / stiffness in the joints starts and then its recommended for a course of cartrophen injections (3) at regular intervals – as per your vet. Lilly is now 10 years old and has just been to the vets today to start another course of needles and as per previous times will hopefully be up and about by the second needle next week. I will continue with the injections whilst she is enjoying a quality of life. Sure its cost some money, but hey… as all true pet owners know…. what is the price for unconditional love.

        • amy
        • May 12, 2019
        Reply

        was the 1700 for both legs or just one?

          • robert
          • January 17, 2022
          Reply

          CBD Oil might, at least relieve some of the discomfort. CBD Oil can be an all around remedy. Pilar, my female Chihuahua, may have knee problems as well.

      • Lorraine kelly Kelly
      • March 13, 2018
      Reply

      Hi only happened a few times she’s 9 months old but the last time it happened she was in pain made me feel sick what can I do

        • Sue
        • November 24, 2021
        Reply

        What did you end up doing if you don’t mind my asking?

      • David f
      • December 15, 2019
      Reply

      The success rate is fairly high when the chi is young and not showing pain… I had it done on mine but unfortunately utmost me about 2500 for the surgery…. And to the lady that said they’re wrong some people can’t afford 2500 for surgery and has nothing to do with loving their pups… I mean the avg person or single income family may not have 2500 to drop on a surgery… Keep in mind if u get one fixed the other may start to do the same thing after u get the first fixed make sure to speak to your vet about this.

    • Amanda Good
    • August 14, 2017
    Reply

    If you don’t care that much surrender your dog to a rescue, at least they will pay for an operation and find it a much more loving home. All animals suffer the same pain as humans, we are all mammals. A dog maybe smaller but the pain will be the same.

    • Rach
    • July 8, 2017
    Reply

    You should have Insurence to pay for whatever your dog needs.
    The way you talk about your dog you shouldn’t be allowed to have one.
    Selfish.
    They are part of the family and you should be responsible, get Insurence and change your attitude.
    A dog is a life. And your responsible for that life.
    The moment you invited a dog in your home you should have been aware of all the responsibilities they come with.
    A life is a life no matter is it’s a dog or a child.

      • kim curan
      • July 24, 2017
      Reply

      so glad you see this the same way i do!
      some people do NOT deserve the unconditional love pets give us.
      that dog needs a loving home.

        • Shelley R
        • December 17, 2020
        Reply

        My Mini was diagnosed yesterday at a grade 4. She is having surgery 1/7/21. I heard this is genetic. Do you know if that is true? My pup also has dbl k-9 teeth, top and bottom. I’m so sad for my pup and angry at the breeder.

          • Julie Naggar
          • September 29, 2022
          Reply

          Has anyone tried knee braces to help give your dog support with a luxating patella? I was going to purchase one as they don’t recommend surgery for an older dog with a heart murmur. My Chihuahua is 5 pounds and since she was a rescue we’re not sure of the exact age but she is at least 12 years old.

      • Tammy
      • July 25, 2017
      Reply

      Well said Rach!

    • Sky Quarto
    • January 25, 2017
    Reply

    That is very mean! Yes, owners should take their pets to the vet immediately! with such symptoms, even less severe. It can be expensive, but that is a pet owners god given responsibility! Pets are family! Vets will let you pay on a payment plan usually! If not go elsewhere, but FAST! Don’t let your pet suffer!

    • Jennifer
    • December 7, 2016
    Reply

    My chihuahua/ jack has started making a sound in her throat, it sounds just like a duck noise,especially when she has had a drink.
    Asked the vet she just said keep an eye on it.
    Does any one have the answer as to why she does this???

      • Lee
      • December 19, 2016
      Reply

      The duck honking sound is common among little dogs because their trachea is so small and temporarily collapses. I freaked when my chi did this when I first rescued him and tongue would turn blue gasping for breaths of air. They sometimes do it when they are nervous too.

      My vet said to gently massage the front throat to encourage the dog to swallow, it can sometimes help the trachea open up again.

      Try to keep the dog calm when this happens because their breathing is affected and causing more stress doesn’t help.

      The vet said in extreme cases they can prescribe relaxants.

        • David f
        • December 15, 2019
        Reply

        My ex girlfriends Yorkie got worked up when she arrived home from work one day and his trachea collapsed and he passed b 4 she could get it to the vet and she left immediately… Was a sad day that was a great dog he used to go everywhere with me… So please keep this in mind.

      • Josh
      • January 7, 2017
      Reply

      Reverse sneezing just rub the throat not much else you can do

        • Robert
        • January 17, 2022
        Reply

        Trachea can collapse an block airway due to a scratchy throat from dry food. Then coughing to relieve scratchy throat can cause more coughing.

        Watering down dry dog food good or real good quality canned food also helps. Petwellbeing has a product called Throat Gold, and other products, to aid in relieving scratchy throat. It acts like a cough syrup and soothes the throat lining. Preventing coughing is important.

      • DONNA CONLIN
      • November 16, 2018
      Reply

      It sounds like it’s a “Reverse Sneeze”. My chihuahua does this. I stead of sneezing out, they take air in. It sounds so scary and weird. When they start this, hold their snout closed and one nostril. This will stop it.

        • Ronald Powers
        • May 20, 2019
        Reply

        Hold the snout, gently blow into the nostrils. I got this on Facebook from people in England. This works. Calm baby by then talking softly & petting.

      • Marilyn
      • November 14, 2021
      Reply

      My chihuahua had the same problem the vet said it was a swollen lymph node. She prescribed antibiotics and tamaril-p. She was better in a week or so

    • Donna
    • October 9, 2016
    Reply

    I hope you did the right thing. I can imagine how painful your dog was in. It breaks my heart. People that can’t afford care, should not have animals. That’s a given. Animals require healthcare just like kids, so don’t have either if you can afford it.

    It’s been awhile since this posting, but I prey he got proper care.

    • Jean
    • September 3, 2016
    Reply

    Can this also happen to a front leg?

    • Melody
    • August 31, 2016
    Reply

    TAKE YOUR DOG TO THE VET THERE ARE SOME PLACES THAT WILL PUT YOU ON A PAYMENT PLAN. …So I just got back from the vet. And my dog is having this problem it’s starting off very benine its the jumping from high distances get stairs I have some but some times my lil guy just gets tp excited and wants to jump down . What you want do is take his back leg and. Gently don’t yank just gentle pull it straight this should manually pop it back in place for time being my vet told me this mines not in pain he’s not in pain that I can tell but as soon as he is he’s getting surgery. So basically if your dog is in a up and down mood jumping off the bed or couch try and keep the on the floor instead of letting them jump down place them on the floor pick them up vice versa

    • Mommom
    • July 2, 2016
    Reply

    Are you kidding me? At least take the poor dog to the vet…they will work out payment due to emergency visit…find an animal emergency hospital and have the dogexamined…you say it happened before…may want to observe ur animal more.and.prevent any further i juries in the future…

    • Vito
    • April 18, 2016
    Reply

    Excellent suggestion!!! I hope it works.

    • Yvette Garcia
    • August 8, 2015
    Reply

    I have a 12 year old chihuahua “Ryan” that woke up yelping at 4am..i checked her over and nothing was visibly wrong..loved and kissed on her until she went back to sleep. At 6am i picked her up to put her out to do her business and i noticed her limping visibly in pain. After a very expensive vet visit we were sent home with numerous bottles of heart medications. This is the first of any heart problems she has ever had. Is this common for this age chihuahua? After reading on the Patellar Luxation,im wondering if i should seek a second opinion before i start pumping her full of meds.. She stands and walks just like the little chihuahua in the video…visibly in pain..Shes the love of my life so i thought i should get some opinions before i take her in and be told im over reacting..any comment will be greatly appreciated..

      • Carol Rosetti
      • April 17, 2018
      Reply

      I had a Chihuahua that had heart issues but she never cried out I would definitely get a second opinion I think it’s more the leg problem but he/she could have a heart problem too mine started around age 13

      • David f
      • December 15, 2019
      Reply

      Chances are it’s this patellar issue yes I’d deff get 2nd opinion…

      • sharonrfarnsworth
      • August 22, 2021
      Reply

      Why would the vet give you heart medicine for a sore leg. You’re right get a second opinion

      • Marilyn
      • November 14, 2021
      Reply

      Yes please take her somewhere and mention her legs.

    • Jessica
    • November 11, 2014
    Reply

    My chiuahah was playing to rough earlier and she started yelping and a few minutes later she was limping do you think this is what happen?

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