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Why do human legs bend forward, while other animals (e.g. Velociraptor) legs bend backward?

Dr. Aris Thorne
Dr. Aris Thorne
Senior Science Editor · Feb 8, 2026 · Updated Apr 13, 2026

I believe that if you look at the back leg of a dog, for example, the "backwards" joint is the equivalent of a human ankle, and they also have a knee. Basically, if you walk on the ball of your feet, and had a size 30 foot, you'd be doing the same thing.

52
Words

1 min
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#284
of 500 in Animals

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The Short Answer

I believe that if you look at the back leg of a dog, for example, the "backwards" joint is the equivalent of a human ankle, and they also have a knee. Basically, if you walk on the ball of your feet, and had a size 30 foot, you'd be doing the same thing.

Analysis

Key Concepts: Believe, look, back

This explanation focuses on believe, look, back and spans 52 words across 2 sentences. At 24% below the average Animals explanation (68 words), the answer takes a direct, no-frills approach — sometimes the simplest explanation is the most effective.

What This Answer Covers

This is a focused, single-point answer that gets directly to the core of the question without detours.

How This Compares in Animals

Ranked #284 of 500 Animals questions by answer depth (top 58%). This is in the concise tier — a focused explanation that prioritizes clarity over exhaustiveness. Many readers prefer this level of directness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a simple explanation for why human legs bend forward, while other animals (e.g. velociraptor) legs bend backward?

I believe that if you look at the back leg of a dog, for example, the "backwards" joint is the equivalent of a human ankle, and they also have a knee. Basically, if you walk on the ball of your feet, and had a size 30 foot, you'd be doing the same…

How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Animals questions?

This is a focused answer at 52 words, ranked #284 of 500 Animals questions by depth. The key concepts covered are believe, look, back.

What approach does this answer take to explain human legs bend forward, while other animals (e.g. velocirap?

The explanation uses concrete examples across 52 words. It is categorized under Animals and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.