What is gait analysis in dogs – and why is it so important? A view from a veterinary perspective

Gait analysis in dogs is a precise tool for assessing movement sequences and can provide important information about your dog’s orthopaedic health. But why is an X-ray, CT or MRI alone not enough? The answer lies in the dynamics: gait analysis shows how your dog actually moves – and uncovers hidden functional problems that are not visible in a static image.

What makes gait analysis in dogs so special?

Gait analysis is much more than just a close look at your dog’s movements. It enables a precise assessment of:

• Movement sequences: Recognizing deviations in gait and stance phases
• Load distribution: How evenly are the limbs loaded?
• Symmetry: Are there any hidden imbalances that affect the overall movement pattern?
• Functionality: How does the interaction of muscles, joints and ligaments work?

In contrast to X-rays, CT scans or MRIs, which only provide a static view of the body, gait analysis shows how your dog actually moves – dynamically and in everyday life.

Which dogs are suitable for gait analysis?

1. Prophylaxis for puppies and young dogs

A dog’s growth is a sensitive phase, during which undesirable developments in the musculoskeletal system can have long-term consequences. An early gait analysis can help:

• Recognize irregularities such as functional asymmetries
• Adjust load patterns before they lead to damage
• Create the basis for a healthy, strong skeletal system

2. Optimal prevention for adult dogs

Gait analysis also provides important insights for adult dogs. Whether for active sporting dogs, family dogs or service dogs – the analysis helps to identify stress limits and minimize the risk of injury.

3. Healthy ageing for senior citizens

With increasing age, wear and tear or compensations often creep into the gait pattern. Gait analysis helps to detect pain at an early stage and to take targeted therapeutic measures to ensure that your dog remains mobile in old age.

4. Rehabilitation after injuries or operations

After orthopaedic surgery, such as cruciate ligament surgery, gait analysis is an indispensable tool for monitoring the healing process. It objectively shows how movement patterns change and supports the precise adjustment of therapy.

Why LupoGait®?

Advantages over treadmill analyses or other systems

• Naturalness: In contrast to the treadmill, the dog is examined on a normal surface, which reflects its natural movement sequences
• Precision: Over 34 parameters such as stance phase, stride length and symmetry are measured – for a detailed diagnosis
• Mobility: The LupoGait® system is lightweight and can also be used outside the practice if required
• Individual fit: With up to 12 different jacket sizes and customized options, the system is suitable for every breed, from Chihuahuas to Irish Wolfhounds
• Speed: The examination is stress-free and completed in just a few minutes

Commonly overlooked problems that gait analysis can reveal in dogs

• Early signs of osteoarthritis or HD/ED
• Compensations due to pain or incorrect loading
• Subtle imbalances after operations or injuries
• Inconspicuous but problematic movement patterns in young dogs

How does the gait analysis at orthoVET work?

1. In-depth examination: Before the analysis begins, we carry out a detailed orthopedic examination
2. Movement recording: Your dog wears the LupoGait® sensor jacket and we record its movements
3. Evaluation: The data obtained is analyzed in order to draw precise conclusions
4. Treatment recommendation: Based on the results, we develop a customized treatment plan

Why is prevention so important?

Orthopaedic problems often develop gradually and go unnoticed for a long time. An early gait analysis gives you the certainty that your dog has no hidden problems. The earlier abnormalities are detected, the better we can intervene and ensure your dog’s quality of life.

Conclusion: Movement in the best hands

Whether puppy, senior or convalescent – gait analysis with LupoGait® is an indispensable tool for your dog’s orthopaedic health. As a veterinary practice, we attach great importance to identifying problems at an early stage and treating them individually.