Dogs can be very erratic movers depending on how the mood takes them. The zoomies are a classic example. But there’s one movement that can send alarm bells ringing in even the most laidback of owners: a dog with a twisting body when walking. It can also be described as your dog walking in a c shape, sideways, sidewinding, or like a crab.
However, why do dogs start the crabbing walk or sprint sideways? Here’s the most thorough response I could find after consulting a veterinarian and compiling the finest available web resources, along with a detailed analysis.
My dog walks sideways; why? For a variety of reasons, including hip dysplasia, having a dominant limb, excitement, an ear infection, or even just pins and sensations after waking up, your dog may have a twisted body and be walking sideways.
Why does your dog’s body twist when it walks?
Dogs that engage in this strange activity, which essentially leads them to walk or sprint sideways while still going ahead, will appear uneven. It’s been likened to walking in a C shape or like a crab.
Their back legs are frequently a little off to the side from their front legs, and their bodies frequently become twisted and bent.
You may have cause for concern if you have seen that your dog walks with his body twisted. After all, crabbing can occasionally mimic an injury and give dog owners the idea that their dog’s body or legs may be malfunctioning.
Similarly, you may be wondering if there is a treatment for it and if it has anything to do with your dog’s coordination or balance. You’ve come to the correct place if you found this post while looking for an answer; allow me to address all of your inquiries and more.
Your Dog Is Continuing to Grow
As with the previous discussion, dogs at adolescence can grow to be extremely long and lean. They may walk sideways until they fill out in their legs to avoid falling or hitting their front legs with their backs.
If your dog is in this stage, when they reach adulthood, they probably will outgrow this gait. While it lasts, enjoy this stage of puppyhood!
One of them is Dominant.
Your dog may have greater strength on their left or right side if they appear to veer to the side when they are energetically moving, especially when racing.
Keep an eye on your dog to determine whether they generally favor one side over the other.
Dogs can favor one side and use it more subtly, much as people can be right- or left-handed and have one leg stronger than the other.
If your dog is like this, after they’re relaxed, they’ll resume walking normally.
They’re Thrilled!
Dogs who are excited may act foolishly, such as running or walking in an odd direction! This is frequently caused by their dominant side, where their legs are stronger, as we previously explained.
Take note of your dog’s sideways gait. Is it when they’re chasing their favorite ball in the backyard, when you return home from work, or when you start a walk?