Question

What is the reason behind dogs lifting their legs when they urinate or defecate?

Answer 1

not all male dogs do. I have 2 studs that just stand on all 4s and pee. It's a learned behaviour from other male dogs that lift their legs.

Answer 2

So they don't get it all over themselves..

Answer 3

nso they don't get them wet. plus they can aimbette rto get it on a pole or something instead of going starigh tdown.

Answer 4

Usually only male dogs do this and only if they are un-neutered or were neutered at an age where their hormones had already taken affect. It's so they can urinate on trees, buildings, whatever at a higher level. The higher the better because it means a taller animal. Also a dogs urine is like a text message to other dogs telling them about health, possibly food and other information. Sometimes you will see the alpha female lift her leg but it's never as high as a male and uncommon in any case.

Answer 5

the same reason men stand up to pee. They don't want to get it all over themselves.

Answer 6

to keep the long grass from tickling them when they squate

Answer 7

my dad always said it was to kick their a** out of gear. i dunno because males only do it...girl dogs squat.

Answer 8

So they don't get it on themselves...