Is it okay for a dog to walk upright unless you want your dog to be paralyzed?

Jul 26,2025
3Min

Dogs cannot walk upright

Dogs do not have the spine to walk upright!
Under normal circumstances, the main load-bearing structures of a dog are the shoulders, hips and four legs, and the spine only needs to bear a small part of the body weight. When walking upright, the weight of the body will change. Almost all the weight is borne by the spine and hind legs, which will cause varying degrees of damage to their bones, joints and other parts. If things go on like this, it will cause various spinal problems. In severe cases, the ability to walk will be completely lost. Countless parents of furry children have paid a heavy price for this because they were unable to stand on their hind legs due to being forced to stand.

Hazards of dogs walking upright

1. Causes patellar dislocation, joint wear, arthritis, cartilage damage, etc.
2. Cause spinal deformation, hind leg deformity or bow-legged condition.
3. The originally small burden on the spine and lumbar vertebrae increases significantly due to standing upright, which may cause intervertebral disc herniation.
4. The urinary function is affected: Thoracic and lumbar spine diseases may also cause urinary disorders in dogs. If the dog does not urinate for 48 hours, there is a high probability of uremia.
5. Hind limb paralysis and quadriplegia: Intervertebral disc problems caused by uprightness most commonly cause paralysis of the dog's hind limbs. However, if the cervical spine is accidentally affected, it is likely to lead to quadriplegia, gradually making them completely Loss of mobility.
6. Sudden death: If the injury occurs very close to the head, and in severe cases the brain stem is injured, it will affect the heart and respiratory system, leading to sudden death.

What should I do if my dog ​​walks upright on its own?

If you find that your dog is standing or walking upright, you should correct it in time or treat it coldly. There is no reward for ignoring someone, so don’t look surprised. There may even be a slightly angry mood and expression. The dog knows that the dog owner doesn’t like this behavior and will not do it again.
It should also be noted that many domestic dogs do not actually walk upright, but more often stand up and circle around their owners' legs, which should also be avoided. Especially small dogs: Poodle, Bichon Frize, Pomeranian, etc.
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