Hypothesis 3)  Congenital Abnormalities


There are some bone deformities that are 
genetically associated.  Small breed 
dogs may be predisposed to developing joint 
and/or limb problems as these 
deformities affect normal growth and development 
of surrounding tissues.

Congenital patella luxation is commonly seen in 
small breed dogs, such as the 
pomeranian.  Abnormal pressure associated with 
the luxation can result in 
improper bone development.  

Age is an important factor as a younger animal 
still has an open physis and the abnormal forces 
will cause torsional and angular deformities.  
Lateral bowing and femoral condylar dysplasia 
can also result from the abnormal pressures.  
Lack of normal pressure of the patella on the 
trochlear groove results in a shallow trochlear 
groove, which would potentiate further and more 
severe patellar luxation.

Clinical signs can range from mild, soft tissue 
changes to marked skeletal abnormalities.  
Clinical signs can increase with age 
as the longer the abnormal pressure is applied 
to the affected joint, the more 
severe the torsion and angular deformities will 
be.