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My dog's knee pops out and he limps. What causes this and what's next?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pug | Male | 2 years old | 27 lbs

My dog is on hip and joint supplements and his knee pops out i was massage him and when he got up he limped a little the vet has carprofen and today is has last pill

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 4th, 2018

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Knees 'popping out' in a Pug is usually due to a luxating patella. This is a condition that can be surgically corrected, and given Rascal's age of 2, this is recommended so that he doesn't develop painful arthritis for the rest of his life. The other possible condition is a 'torn cruciate', and this also can be corrected with surgery. Carprofen is a medication of the class 'NSAIDs'. This are hard on the liver, kidney and gut. It is good for breakthrough pain, however long-term this isn't something you want to continue on. Please discuss with your vet about surgical correction options for Rascal, as well as other options for pain medications longer term (Gabapentin for example). NSAIDs do work best, they just come with high risks of side effects. Best of luck with Rascal, I hope he feels better soon!

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