Is it normal for my Shih Tzu's back leg to pop out when walking?

Question

Hi, yesterday I noticed my 1 year old shihtzus back leg looks as though it pops out when she’s walking on it? She doesn’t seem to be in any pain with it, we have her booked in to see our vet, but I’m just wondering if this is normal? Or if I should be concerned? Shes being her usual self, eating, playing and walks fine but it just looks as though it’s popping out when she walks. Thanks. Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 5 months old

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA · Accepted Answer

Small breed dogs like Shih Tzus are prone to having luxating patellas, and this may be what you are seeing. They can range from only coming out of place with manual pressure all the way up to slipping out of place and locking up the knee. Depending on the severity of this issue, the vet may recommend just monitoring at home or surgery. Of course, there could be something else going on with the leg, and I am sure your vet will get to the bottom of it! Here is some more information on luxating patellas: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2448

Is it normal for my Shih Tzu's back leg to pop out when walking?

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