Splooting

Splooting is lying in a spread-eagled, prone posture. It is typically performed by four-legged mammals such as dogs and squirrels when they wish to relax or cool down. It may also be known as frogging or pancaking.[1]

Example of a splooting English Bulldog.

Dogs

Dogs may adopt this position to relax, stretch and relieve pressure on the spine. It is especially easy and natural for young, flexible dogs and dogs with short legs such as corgis.[1]

Dogs do not sweat much and so may use this position to cool their bodies by hugging a cold surface such as stone or tile.[1]

Squirrels
A squirrel splooting on the pavement.

Many squirrels have been noticed splooting on hot days. Such observations have increased as a result of global warming and as it has become easier to share pictures on social media.[2]

Other animals
A splooting white Siberian cat.

Other animals which have been observed splooting include bears, cats and marmots.[3][2]

See also

References
  1. Lisa Marie Conklin (6 July 2023), "Why Do Dogs Sploot? Veterinarians Explain the Cute Canine Behavior", Reader's Digest
  2. Sarah Kuta (July 5, 2023), "Why Are Squirrels 'Splooting' on Hot Days?", Smithsonian, retrieved August 8, 2023
  3. Matthew Cantor (12 August 2022), City tells New Yorkers: don’t panic about ‘splooting’ squirrels


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