Poodle Pulse: Overangulation

🚫 Why Too Much Rear Angulation in Poodles Is a Problem

And why “more” isn’t always better

You might notice that some Poodles in the show ring have long, sweeping hind legs that look dramatic or stylish when they’re stacked or moving. At first glance, it can seem impressive—but this extreme look, called overangulation, can actually cause problems.

🐩 What Is “Overangulation” Anyway?

Poodles should have a nice balance between their front legs and back legs. When a dog is overangulated, the bones in the back legs are angled too sharply. This makes the rear look longer or more stretched out behind the dog, especially when standing.

It’s like giving the dog high-performance springs in the back—but not enough support in the front to match.

❌ Why That’s a Bad Thing

1. ⚖️ It Throws Off Balance

Dogs need their front and back to work together like a team. When the rear legs are “too much,” it throws the body off balance. The dog may move in a way that looks fancy, but it isn’t smooth or efficient—and it can wear down the body over time.

2. 🚷 It Affects the Way They Move

Overangulated dogs often have trouble moving in a straight line. They may:

• Wobble or twist when walking
• Seem bouncy or choppy instead of smooth
• Trot awkwardly or wear out quickly

This isn’t just about looks—good movement means the dog can walk, run, and play with less risk of injury.

3. 🐾 It Can Be Uncomfortable or Even Painful

Too much angle in the back legs puts strain on the joints and muscles. Over time, this can cause:

• Arthritis
• Hip and knee problems
• Muscle soreness or injuries

That’s especially concerning for active dogs who love to run, hike, or compete in sports.

4. 🐶 Even Puppies Are Affected

Puppies with too much rear angulation often have trouble sitting square or standing up straight. They might seem wobbly or weak in the back end. These are early signs that their structure is off—and it usually gets worse, not better, as they grow.

🧬 But Aren’t Show Dogs Supposed to Look Fancy?

Yes, but “fancy” doesn’t mean exaggerated. The official standard for Poodles says their rear should be well-angled—but in balance with the front.

Overangulated rears are becoming more common in some show lines because they look flashy and may even be rewarded in the ring. But in the long run, they don’t hold up well—and they don’t reflect what the breed was meant to be: a strong, athletic, versatile dog.

✅ What You Want to See Instead

• Balanced structure: Front and back legs that match in length and angle
• Smooth movement: A dog that trots with ease, without bouncing or wobbling
• Strong and sturdy: A rear end that supports healthy hips and joints for life
• Comfortable puppies: Sitting and standing naturally, no wobbles or weird postures

❤️ Why It Matters

Whether your Poodle is a show dog, a sports partner, or a beloved family pet—structure matters. A well-built dog is:

• Less likely to get injured
• More likely to stay active into old age
• Happier and more comfortable in daily life

So next time someone says, “Look at those long legs!”—remember: flashy isn’t always functional.