Why Do Some Dogs Stand on 3 Feet?

Dogs stand on three feet for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it's due to pain or injury. Other times, it may a result of hip dysplasia, an abnormal formation within the hip joint. A more inviting reason dogs stand on three feet is when they are "pointing."

  1. Paw Injuries

    • Dogs' paws are in constant contact with the ground and everything on it. This includes broken glass, biting and stinging insects, hot surfaces, rocks, splinters, chemicals and other harmful objects. Although they're tough, paw pads are still vulnerable to injury. An injured paw pad hurts, and in response a dog will raise his paw to avoid touching it to the ground. He may also stand on three feet if he trips, catches his paw on something or experiences any other injury.

    Hip Dysplasia

    • Hip dysplasia is an abnormal formation in the hip joint. Symptoms include reluctance to jump, get up or lie down, or move at all, says Silvia Lavallee, an animal rehabilitation specialist. She says a dog suffering hip dysplasia may also hold his back paw off the ground. X-rays provide diagnosis, and treatment options include medications, supplements, surgery, rest and mild, low-impact exercise. Nonslip floors and soft bedding offer comfort. Hip dysplasia is painful; massage and acupressure can also help, says Lavallee.

    Pointing

    • The pointer breed is not the only one who takes part in this movement. Many dogs display this body language of raising the tail and paw, pointing at prey. This behavior can be reinforced for hunting purposes, but is natural for dogs, says Dr. Ellen M. Vindell of Veterinary Behavior Consultations in Pleasant Valley, New York. Pointing may also be seen more frequently in dogs with pointing breeds in their heritages, like Brittany spaniels or English pointers.

    Protecting the Paws and Legs

    • To help avoid paw injuries, monitor where your dog walks. Check for glass, biting insects, chemicals and other dangerous objects. Feel the ground with your hand to ensure it's not too hot for his paws, and stick to grass and dirt in hot weather. Bring your dog in for regular vet visits to monitor for hip dysplaysia, and engage in appropriate preventative measures. If you suspect your dog is standing on three feet due to pain, a vet trip is in order.