Oh dear I'm not very familiar with the smaller breeds but it defiitely sounds like Gracie has some orthopedic issues that need to looked into further! Joints "popping out" is definitely not normal. I have seen some smaller breeds whose feet do turn out as you describe, but, I'm not sure if this caused them any problems/was unnatural. Have you ever had a small dog like Gracie before? I don't how frightened she might be to jump down from a high bed. Still, she's so young...I worry about what problems might lay ahead if she doesn't get treated now (if it's something that can be treated) such as arthritis. I'd definitely look into a 2nd opinon; search out an ortho. specialist. Maybe you could first bring this up with your vet again? Maybe you could search out a Maltese or Shih Tzu forum and ask them if they're familiar with this condition. Hopefully you can get some answers. Please let us know how Gracie's doing