SPUR Project

2011 winner (4 of 20)

Kinematic analysis of the performance dog

Supervisors: Dr Jacqueline Boyd, Miss Cassie White (both Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences)

Students: Amy Hardy, Rebecca Welbourne, Lynsey Middleton

In comparison to biomechanical research in the performance horse, the performance dog has up to now, received very little scientific investigation. However, more recently, an increased awareness of the demands of canine sporting disciplines (e.g. obedience, agility, working and field trials) on the health and welfare of canine participants has resulted in an enhanced awareness of and appreciation for a scientific approach to both training and competing from participants and the major governing bodies (e.g. The Kennel Club). The project used kinematic analysis to evaluate jumping style and technique and conduct kinetic evaluation of landing forces for a variety of dogs with the aim of identifying parameters that might be associated with an enhanced risk of injury and thus having health and welfare implications. Student tasks included utilising performance analysis equipment available at the Brackenhurst campus to capture data from performance dogs. In addition, a pressure measurement system (Tekscan) was employed to monitor ground reactive forces to assess the biomechanical aspects of activities on participants. The students then analysed and reported on the findings.