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Is my dog's leg position normal? Could it be hip dysplasia or strain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 9 months old

The way he is keeping his leg as shown in the attach photo does this mean he has hip dysplasia or is it a early sign of hip dysplasia? Or he is doing because of muscle pull or strain and in muscle pull or strain also dogs sits like this ?

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2017

Bruno's leg looks like it is in a normal position to me. Sometimes dogs that have knee pain will sure with their knees falling out to the side and slightly extended, but Bruno's leg does not appear to be in that position. Dogs with hip dysplasia can have an abnormal gait when walking or can hop with both legs together when running. If you're concerned that Bruno isn't walking normally you should have him examined by your vet.

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    Answered By Susan England-Foster

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 22nd, 2017

    Typically if dogs are walking with there hind legs close together it can be a sign of how there hips are set up and possible hip dysplasia. If you are concerned about hip dysplasia I would recommend Bruno having x-rays at 2 years of age to assess the placement. I would continue to give the glucosamine and chondroitin every day. These are supplements and not going to cause any long term issues. Also keeping Bruno at a good weight is important to keep extra pressure off his limbs. Hope that helps

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    Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 31st, 2017

    Hi there and thanks for posting! It is hard to say what is going on with Bruno without examining him first, but from your description, it sounds like Bruno may be experiencing an orthopedic issue. Degenerative Myelopathy often presents are progressive weakness in the hind limbs, knuckling of the paws, and stumbling. Degenerative Myelopathy typically effects middle aged to older dogs. Some possibilities may be hip dysplasia, torn cruciate ligament (ACL), spinal or disc issues. I would recommend Bruno see a veterinarian soon for an exam to help determine a cause so he can receive proper treatment. I hope this helps and I wish you and Bruno the best!

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 5th, 2017

    This looks more like a puppy with severe hip dysplasia rather than a calcium deficiency. A vet doctor would need to evaluate Jack and take x-rays of his hips to see if this is the case. If this is the case, then no amount of supplementation or medication will correct this condition - surgery is the only option. The first step is getting an accurate diagnosis of his condition. Once this is known, treatment options can be discussed. He can exercise as much as he wants right now, but don't push him to do any more than he wants until his condition is better understood. I hope that helps.

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