Seeing a dog sit is a common sight. But did you know that a dog’s sitting posture can reveal hidden issues with their physical health? A dog sitting weirdly could be a sign of pain or health problems. This article explains what good and bad sitting postures look like, why they matter, and how to help your dog.
Good vs. Sloppy Sitting
A proper dog sit has straight forelimbs, with the elbows pointing backward and the shoulders down. The hind limbs are neatly tucked alongside the body, with the knees and toes facing forward. Puppies may struggle with this posture as their bodies are still developing, but adult dogs should be able to sit correctly.
A sloppy sit is when a dog throws its hind legs to the side, sits on one hip, or bends its knees outwards like a frog. While this might be normal for puppies due to their flexibility and developing muscles, frequent sloppy sitting in adult dogs could indicate a problem.
Why Is My Dog Sitting Weird?
Here are some common reasons for unusual sitting postures in dogs:
Conformation: Some dogs have physical builds that make sitting correctly uncomfortable. For instance, dachshunds and other long-backed dogs might sit on their hip because of the strain their spines endure.
Dwarfism: Dogs with chondrodysplasia (canine dwarfism) often have irregular limb growth, making a textbook sit impossible. Breeds like corgis benefit from conditioning to support their posture.
Athletic Builds: Sighthounds, bred for speed, may find sitting uncomfortable due to their long spines and strong hindquarters. These dogs often prefer to lie down instead.
Surfaces: Sometimes, weird sitting could be related to the surface. Dogs might avoid sitting directly on surfaces that are too wet, hot, or cold, or that lack grip, causing them to slide into a sloppy sit.
Fatigue: Tired dogs might slump into a sloppy sit because proper sitting requires core strength. This is common after a long play session and usually isn't a cause for concern.
Health Concerns Linked to Sloppy Sits
Frequent sloppy sitting in adult dogs may indicate an underlying health issue:
Hip Dysplasia: Common in larger breeds, hip dysplasia occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint don’t fit properly, causing pain. Dogs with hip dysplasia may have difficulty sitting correctly or climbing stairs.
Pain: Sloppy sitting may be a sign of pain. Dogs often try to reduce tension in sore muscles by adopting a more comfortable sitting position. If you notice lameness or reluctance to move, consult a vet.
Injuries: Injuries to muscles, ligaments, or bones can prevent a dog from sitting correctly. If your dog limps or favors one side, a vet should assess for injuries.
Inflamed Anal Glands: Dogs with inflamed anal glands might avoid sitting directly on their bottom, preferring to lean to one side.
The Role of Training
Sometimes, poor sitting posture is influenced by the way the dog is trained. Placement of treats and body language during training are crucial in teaching a dog to sit correctly. If a dog frequently adopts a poor sitting pose, it may be due to inconsistent or unclear training.
How to Help Your Dog
First, observe your dog to see if sloppy sitting is frequent or occasional. Is your dog a puppy? Or do they have other signs of discomfort? Consider changing the surface you train on and reassessing your training approach. Check out Anglian Dog Works for help with all things training.
Strengthening your dog’s physical condition through regular exercise, and specific exercises can also help.
If the issue persists, consult a professional, such as a vet or physiotherapist. For dogs without medical concerns, working with a dog trainer can improve their posture and sitting mechanics.
Understanding your dog’s sitting posture can provide insight into their overall health. With proper care and observation, you can help your dog maintain a healthy and comfortable sitting position and safeguard against future potential problems.
Get in touch if you would like more information or an assessment for your dog
Related Posts
