Corgis laying down is a common sight, and it's not just because they're lazy. In fact, corgis are prone to a unique behavior called "splooting", where they lay down with their bottom in the air.
Splooting is a natural position for corgis due to their body structure. They have a short stature and a long, curved spine, which makes it comfortable for them to rest in this way.
Research suggests that splooting is a way for corgis to regulate their body temperature. By exposing their belly to the air, they can cool down more efficiently.
This behavior is also linked to the breed's origins. Corgis were originally bred to herd cattle and horses, and their ability to lay down in a sploot position may have helped them to conserve energy and stay cool in the hot summer sun.
Take a look at this: Corgis Splooting
What is Splooting?
Splooting is a common behavior in dogs, particularly in Corgis, where they lie on their stomach and stretch their legs back and away from their body. This adorable position is often seen in small breeds like Corgis, French Bulldogs, and Pugs.
Corgis are more prone to splooting due to their short legs and unique body shape. Some breeds, like the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Cardigan Welsh Corgi, are more likely to exhibit this behavior.
Puppies tend to sploot more than adult dogs, and Corgis can usually sploot as adults too. Some dogs may lose their ability to sploot as they grow older.
Splooting is not just for small breeds; big breeds like Pitbull Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, Newfoundlands, and German Shepherds can also be seen splooting. Even cats have been known to put their legs back in a similar position, just like they don't care.
A Corgi sploot is when the dog lies on its stomach and stretches its legs back and away from the body, which can be done with one leg or both legs at once. Some dogs may also sploot with their thighs and legs out to the side, giving them an almost frog-like appearance.
Related reading: Why Do Corgis Sploot
Why Some Breeds Sploot
Some breeds are more prone to splooting than others. Corgis, for example, are known to sploot frequently, and it's not uncommon to see them lying on their stomachs with their legs stretched out behind them.
In fact, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Cardigan Welsh Corgi breeds are particularly fond of splooting. If you share your home with one of these adorable, short-legged fur friends, you've probably seen them sploot more than once.
German Shepherds, Dachshunds, French and English Bulldogs, Poodles, Pitbull Terriers, and Labrador Retrievers are also known to sploot. This behavior can be a sign of comfort and enjoyment when lying in this position.
Dogs that sploot often do so while they're sleeping or relaxing for quite a prolonged period. Some breeds might just practice a Corgi sploot when stretching their hind legs.
Here are some dog breeds that are known to sploot:
- German Shepherds
- Dachshunds
- French and English Bulldogs
- Poodles
- Pitbull Terriers
- Labrador Retrievers
These breeds often sploot because it's a comfortable position for them, and it can also help them stretch their limbs and relax.
Splooting Positions
Corgis are known to lie down in various positions, but one of the most adorable is the sploot.
A Corgi sploot is when your dog lies on its stomach and stretches its legs back and away from the body. It can be done with one leg or both legs at once. Some dogs may also sploot with their thighs and legs out to the side, giving them an almost frog-like appearance.
Puppies tend to sploot more than adult dogs, and Corgis can usually sploot as adults, but some dogs may lose their ability as they grow older.
The full sploot is when both legs stretch out behind the dog, and some Corgis (and especially puppies) may even sploot with both their front and hind legs! This is usually known as a “Pancake Sploot.”
Corgis are also known to sleep in other positions, such as on their backs, stomachs, or sides curled up, depending on what is most comfortable and how your dog feels. Your corgi could choose any of these positions and even alternate between them.
Here's an interesting read: Cardigan Corgi Puppy
Corgi Sleeping Habits
Corgis can be creative with their sleeping positions, but they generally have four common positions you'll often find.
They usually sleep on their backs, stomachs, or sides curled up, depending on what's most comfortable and how your dog feels.
Your corgi might choose any of these positions and even alternate between them, but you'll usually find it in its favorite position, which is on its back.
If space is limited, corgis typically sleep on their sides or stomachs.
They will need a bit more extra space to sleep on their backs, so if it's available, you may find them in that position.
Corgis can sleep on their backs, but they do require a bit more space to do so.
For another approach, see: Why Do Corgis Sleep on Their Backs
Potential Risks
It's possible that splooting could be a sign of underlying issues. A dog that normally sploots and suddenly stops could be experiencing pain or discomfort.
If your Corgi has been splooting without any issues, it's likely a good sign for their hip health. However, it's always a good idea to keep an eye on their behavior and consult a vet if you notice any changes.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Welsh Corgi Health
Corgi Sploot in Media
Corgis have taken the internet by storm with their adorable splooting antics, thanks to social media sites like Instagram. The UK's Kennel Club credits social media for the Corgi's recent resurgence in popularity, especially the Pembrokeshire Welsh Corgi.
In fact, Corgi registrations have increased by 54 percent since 2015, thanks in part to social media and the thousands of pics out there of the Corgi sploot. You can barely go on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or other platforms without finding photos of adorable dogs living their best splooting life.
Searching for hashtags like #sploot or #splooting will mostly turn up Corgis, as they are the most popular splooters right now. Even cats have been spotted splooting, but Corgis are the clear winners when it comes to social media fame.
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