Help! My Dog Is Sitting Sideways. Could It Be Their Hips?! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hi Dr. Paola,
Abigail is a 2.5-year-old Shepherd/Lab mix. Recently, I have noticed that when she sits, she sits to the side and has to lean against something. The vet said it’s her knees, but I think it’s her hips. She prescribed pain meds, and now Abigail can run like crazy.
My question is, do I need to give her some kind of supplement? And if so, which one? I have wasted money on so many. Any help is very appreciated.
Thank you for your time.” – Anna
Quick Info about Abigail
Hi Anna,
You’re absolutely right to want a clear and effective approach for Abigail without wasting time or money on unproven products. At two and a half years old, a Shepherd-Lab mix showing this kind of seated posture may indeed be compensating for discomfort in either the hips or the knees. While your veterinarian observed changes in the knees, your concern about her hips is valid and quite common in breeds prone to both hip dysplasia and cruciate or patellar issues. The fact that she responds well to pain medication suggests inflammation is present, regardless of the exact joint affected.
Joint supplements can be helpful, especially those backed by peer-reviewed research. Look for a product that contains proven ingredients such as glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulfate, and undenatured type II collagen (UC-II). These support cartilage health and joint comfort. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly those derived from marine sources like fish oil, are also anti-inflammatory and have shown benefits in controlled studies. Dasuquin Advanced, GlycoFlex III, or Movoflex are examples of veterinary-recommended joint supplements with good evidence and bioavailability. Consistency is key here; these aren’t quick fixes but long-term support tools. If Abigail is overweight, even slightly, managing her body condition can have a greater impact on joint comfort than any supplement.
Since you’re already working closely with your vet, consider asking for radiographs of her hips and stifles (knees) to better understand where the structural changes are occurring. This will help guide both treatment and preventive strategies more precisely, avoiding further guesswork or wasted spending.
Good luck!
– Dr. Paola