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My dog can't sit up straight. What causes it and how to help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Female | spayed | 7 years old

My question/concern is in the photo section. Sorry that it's a little long. In the last photo, you can see how my dog can not sit up straight.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 5th, 2018

I agree with your veterinarian, in that being constantly crated and restrained absolutely could affect her in terms of leading to back and joint issues, arthritis and could change her gait and posture, making it impossible to sit up straight. That is true whether she is a mixed breed or not. I agree that she very well could be a mixed breed, and I suspect she is. It sounds like you are doing a lot for her to try to keep her comfortable and healthy! The more you can keep her weight down, the better that will be for her mobility in the face of her arthritis and pain problems. I think it may really benefit Phoebe to consider some rehabilitation (physical therapy) exercises, and maybe some acupuncture or therapeutic laser. All of these things along with her being on Vetprofen will be beneficial. Ask your veterinarian if they can recommend anyone who offers those services in your area. If your vet doesn't know of someone specific, here is a search tool to find a rehab vet: http://www.rehabvets.org/directory.lasso I hope that information helps you. Thank you for asking PetCoach!

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