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Why does my male dog squat to pee instead of lifting his leg?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | 1 year and 2 months old | 10 lbs

My dog is a male dog but he pees (urinates) like a female (by sitting and not standing)? What can I do about it?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 23rd, 2019

This is not really a problem. Many male dogs squat to urinate especially if there are no objects around for them to urinate on. I am not sure you can correct this behavior but the best way would be to take him to areas where other male dogs have urinated. This may provoke him to want to "mark his territory" on top of that other dog's urine.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on April 12th, 2017
I'm afraid not - normally, each dog has his/her own way of peeing that is normal for them. Many male dogs lift their legs to urinate, but some don't. I have three male dogs; two of them lift their legs, while one just stands still and lifts his tail. Other male dogs squat and urinate like females. This isn't really a trainable behavior, so I'm afraid you'll just need to work with whatever Ted does naturally.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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