Understanding and Preventing Splayed Feet in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

When a dog has splayed feet, also known as ‘flat-footedness’ or ‘pastern weakness,’ their entire paw will make contact with the ground. This differs from a typical stance where only the pads and toes bear weight. Visually, it resembles the position of a human doing a plank, with the legs splayed outwards. While this might seem like a minor issue, it often indicates an underlying problem, often related to nutrition or physical health.

The pressure on the dog’s front legs is significantly higher when the paws are splayed. This condition is not extremely common in dogs, but when it occurs, it can be challenging to treat. One of the primary causes of splayed feet is calcium deficiency. Ensuring your dog receives adequate nutrition is crucial, with particular emphasis on calcium-rich foods. In addition, regular physical activity can further enhance calcium absorption, aiding in strengthening the bones and reducing the risk of splayed feet. If you observe splayed feet in your dog, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian. They might recommend treatments that include medication, calcium supplements, and a tailored exercise plan to help your dog recover. However, prevention is always better than cure, so paying attention to your dog’s nutritional and activity levels is paramount.

How to Prevent Splayed Feet in Dogs

1. Manage Weight and Growth Rate: It's important to carefully control your dog's weight, especially during puppyhood. Rapid growth and excessive weight gain can put undue stress on their developing bones. This can cause bone deformities, which can lead to splayed feet. This is a very crucial point that every dog owner should pay attention to.

2. Ensure Adequate Exercise: Lack of exercise is another contributing factor to splayed feet. Regular physical activity strengthens muscles and bones, reducing the risk of developing splayed feet. After exercise, it is important to give them adequate rest so that the bones and muscles can recover properly.Follow us for updates:Pet Training