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My dog has luxating patella. What exercises are safe? Can she run?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 10 months and 19 days old | 13 lbs

Chispas was diagnosed with luxating patella and was given Meloxicam and Gabapentin. She has been doing well we have her in a smaller place making sure she is not jumping on to anything she seems to be fine and isn’t limping she does stretch out her leg out at times which the vet told me it will be normal. What exercises are good for me to practice with her to strengthen her leg muscles. Is it ok for her to run or jog? So far i take her out only on leash. Is it safe for her to run?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 18th, 2021

Hello, thank you for your question about Chispas.

Some good exercises to help her recovery include physical therapy exercises such as moving her leg in a cycling motion for 5-10 minutes once a day. Additionally low impact exercises such as swimming will be helpful in keeping her muscles strong.

I also recommend starting a joint supplement (one that has glucosamine and chondroitin) to help keep her joints healthy and prevent development of arthritis as she ages.

In these cases I usually recommend 10-14 days of exercise restriction and then a slow return to exercise. I would start with a gradual return short walks around the neighborhood on the leash and work your way up to playing/running. With more activity it is possible that Chispas could have another case of limping.

Hope this helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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