20/03/2026
✨ Have you ever paid close attention to the way your dog sits? ✨
The image on the left shows an example of a spinal sit, sometimes referred to as a “lazy” or slouched sit. However, this is not considered a normal or ideal sitting posture. In most cases, it is a compensatory strategy rather than a bad habit, allowing your dog to avoid discomfort or instability.
Common reasons for a spinal sit:
🤍 Hip pain or joint discomfort – your dog may offload weight from one side, as sitting square requires even weight distribution through both hips. This is often seen in conditions such as Hip dysplasia or Osteoarthritis.
🤍 Muscle weakness – reduced core strength and hindlimb muscle mass can make a square sit more difficult to maintain, so a spinal sit becomes the easier option.
🤍 Previous injury – old injuries (such as cruciate ligament damage) can lead to long-term compensatory movement patterns if not fully rehabilitated.
🤍 Neurological or spinal issues (less common) – nerve related conditions may affect posture and coordination.
🤍 Learned behaviour – if a dog has sat this way from a young age without correction, it may simply become their normal posture.
Why is a square sit important?
A correct, square sit indicates:
🤍Even mechanical loading through the joints
🤍Balanced muscle development
🤍Good spinal alignment and posture
🤍Improved overall movement quality
Sitting square is not just about appearance, it is a valuable indicator of comfort, joint health, and physical function. Consistently sitting off to one side often suggests that your dog is compensating for an underlying issue, highlighting the importance of addressing it early.
If your dog shows signs of a spinal sit, please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss how we can help support their comfort and mobility.
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Megan Warwick
Level 7 Veterinary Physiotherapist
NAVP & MAHPR
📧 megan02warwick@gmail.com
📞 07592 927359
