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Ugo ' s gait was analysed by observing him at the walk and trot, with examination of the stance and swing phases of the step cycle to evaluate the weight-bearing distribution and look for potential gait abnormalities at specific points within each step cycle. Ugo ' s swing phase was symmetrical and had equal steps within each cycle, and no asymmetries were noted( Figure 2).
Checking a dog ' s ROM assesses the joint mobility and helps identify any restriction or abnormalities. For example, the harness worn by guide dogs may reduce the function of the shoulder joint if it is placed incorrectly. While conducting the palpation assessment, it is important to observe the animal ' s response, as this can help identify painful areas and understand the animal ' s tolerance levels, and provides information to help decide which treatments would be appropriate.
In Ugo ' s case, there were no signs of muscle atrophy or pain on palpation. The ROM of all his joints was within normal limits, and there were no palpable abnormalities in the surrounding tissues. He had no prominent lumps or scar tissue, which can indicate previous injuries, and his muscles were well defined and symmetrical.
Evaluation of gait analysis in therapy dogs
Figure 2. Dynamic assessment.
During dynamic assessment, it is possible to identify compensatory mechanisms that become more apparent during movement, such as altered limb loading, shortened stride length, head movement, swaying of the trunk, toe dragging, or changes in the gait pattern to accommodate pain, muscle weakness or nerve damage. This is why observing various gaits is essential when analysing any issues in therapy dogs.
Musculoskeletal palpation
Through palpation of the musculoskeletal system of a therapy dog, a veterinary physiotherapist can identify areas of muscle tension, pain or asymmetry [ 3 ]. This can help pinpoint specific areas that may require further assessment or treatment. This is beneficial for guide dogs, as they are working dogs that wear large, heavy harnesses; therefore, it is crucial to regularly check they are functioning normally, for their own wellbeing and to prevent any injuries.
Ugo was assessed by checking his muscle tone and muscle mass. These assessments can identify muscle tightness, spasm or atrophy, which can indicate problems related to function and movement. Trigger points, which are taut bands in the muscle, may be detected, as may areas of increased sensitivity indicating pain [ 6 ]. When feeling the muscle, the soft tissue texture can highlight any swelling, heat or areas of fibrosis, providing valuable information about inflammation or chronic changes in tissue or bone, such as sclerosis in osteoarthritis [ 3 ].
Assistance dogs play a vital role in improving the quality of life of individuals with disabilities. One of the crucial factors determining the effectiveness of guide dogs is their gait or walking patterns, as this affects their ability to guide individuals with visual impairments safely.
Wu et al. [ 5 ] explored the use of machine-learning algorithms for gait analysis in potential guide dogs. Their study sought to automate the assessment process through the analysis of objective gait parameters and evaluate the potential of machine-learning methods to improve the accuracy and consistency of gait evaluation compared with conventional subjective assessment approaches.
Two studies demonstrated the significant impact of harnesses on the kinematics of guide dogs and the load applied to certain areas of the body [ 7, 8 ]. A study conducted by Peham et al. [ 7 ] evaluated and compared the pressure distribution patterns associated with three types of harnesses commonly used for guide dogs. By investigating how 10 pressure points on the canine trunk are distributed under these harnesses, using sensor strips, the researchers aimed to provide a better understanding of how each harness type may affect the comfort, welfare and overall wellbeing of guide dogs during their assistance activities. Despite being obtained from a small sample group, the results showed that the highest pressure was detected in the right shoulder area, while the back exhibited minimal strain. The findings of the study shed light on the variations in pressure distribution among the different harness types, offering valuable information for guide dog trainers to help them optimise the equipment and practices used to support these vital service animals.
A recent research paper by Weissenbacher et al. [ 8 ] sheds light on the impact of different guide harnesses on the gait dynamics of guide dogs for blind people. The primary objective of the study was to assess the effects of two guide harness designs on ground reaction
Volume 41( 4) • August 2026
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