Yes. Big dogs sploot. They can sploot because they are hot, because it feels good, and sometimes because they are in pain.
You’ll want to learn what splooting is and what to look for to know if the splooting is normal or part of a bigger problem in your large dog.
What is Splooting?
Splooting is a funny term for when a dog stretches completely out with their legs stretched to the back and to the front so that its entire belly and legs are laying flat on the floor.
There are many pictures on the internet of Corgis and Frenchies splooting, but all dog breeds can sploot.
What Kinds of Splooting Do Dogs Do?

There are several types of splooting that dogs can do. The first kind of splooting is the traditional full sploot. This sploot is when both back legs are fully extended behind the dog.
You’ll find that the dogs most likely to do a full sploot are breeds with short legs like Chihuahuas and Corgis.
The next type of sploot is called the half sploot. The half sploot is when the dog only puts one leg all the way back and has one leg under its belly.
Big breed dogs like Huskies and Labs are more likely to do a half-sploot.
The final type of sploot is called a side sploot. Just about any kind of dog can do a side sploot. This is when a dog has its legs extended on one side and tucked in on the other.
What Else is a Sploot Called?
The sploot position has several other names that it can go by. You could also hear:
- Flurry turkey
- Turkey leg
- Drumsticks
- Supermanning
- Pancaking
- Frog dog
- Flying squirrel
Why Do Big Dogs Sploot?
There are lots of reasons that a dog might sploot. Most of the time they do it because it feels good. Here are some of the other reasons your dog might try out the frog dog pose.
To Stretch: This position is a full body stretch for dogs and allows them to stretch their shoulders or hips.
It’s comfortable and relaxing: Dogs are wonderful companions and when they relax they relax BIG TIME. If they are going to be in a sploot position for any length of time it’s because it feels relaxing and comfortable to them.
It helps them cool down: If there is a cool floor in a hot room, dogs may sploot to cool down and get full body contact with the ground.
Is Splooting Dangerous for Dogs?
Most of the time splooting is perfectly safe and normal. But sometimes it can indicate discomfort in their joints. If your dog suddenly starts to sploot a lot more than normal it can be cause for concern.
A dog might start splooting because they have:
- Trauma in the joints or ligaments
- Osteoarthritis
- Hip dysplasia
- Ataxia
If the splooting starts or increases suddenly or is accompanied by a change in gait, decreased appetite, decreased activity, or a sudden rash or itchiness, you should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible.