Dogs may sploot because they find it comfortable. Stretching out their hind legs allows them to relax and release tension, providing a sense of comfort and relaxation.
Splooting can help dogs regulate their body temperature. By exposing their belly to a cooler surface, such as a tiled floor, they can cool down on a hot day. Conversely, they may also warm up by placing their belly closer to a warm surface.
Dogs that sploot often are usually quite flexible. This behavior allows them to stretch their muscles, particularly their hip and leg muscles. It helps maintain their range of motion and overall flexibility.
Certain dog breeds are more inclined to sploot than others. Breeds with short legs, like Dachshunds and Corgis, or breeds with a broader body structure, such as Bulldogs and Pugs, may find splooting more comfortable due to their body shape and conformation.
Dogs may sploot to relieve pressure on certain areas of their body. By spreading out their hind legs, they can alleviate stress on their joints, especially if they've been lying or sitting for an extended period.
Splooting can be a vulnerable position for dogs. By exposing their underside and vulnerable areas, they are indicating trust and submission, often seen during play or interactions with other dogs or humans.
Dogs sometimes sploot out of pure excitement or during playtime. It can be a part of their energetic and exuberant behavior, expressing joy and enthusiasm.
Some dogs may sploot as a result of an instinctual behavior passed down from their ancestors. While it may not serve a specific purpose in their modern domesticated lives, it could be a remnant of ancestral behavior.