Veterinary and Animal Science

Volume 25, September 2024, 100385

Study: Serial kinematic analysis using inertial measurement units in growing dogs at risk of hip dysplasia

Kinematic analysis in dogs offers an innovative way of detecting movement disorders at an early stage. This technology is particularly useful for diagnosing hip dysplasia (HD), a common condition in large dog breeds such as Labradors and German Shepherds. Thanks to early diagnosis, the progression of the disease can often be prevented. In addition, preventive therapies can be initiated before permanent joint damage occurs.

As part of a study, young dogs were regularly examined using inertial measurement units (IMUs). This revealed clear differences between healthy animals and those at risk of HD. It was particularly noticeable that HD dogs showed an increased variance in their gait parameters, which indicates instability.

Highlights of the scientific study

  • Kinematic analysis in dogs: Dogs with hip dysplasia showed a more unsteady gait pattern and a higher variance in certain gait parameters compared to healthy dogs.
  • Unsteady gait in dogs: In dogs with hip dysplasia, gait parameters such as extension, stride length and acceleration are significantly more unstable than in healthy animals. These deviations can indicate movement insecurities.
  • Early diagnosis through gait parameters: By analyzing specific gait patterns, it is possible to diagnose HD at an early stage. This means that targeted measures can be taken before the symptoms worsen.
  • Efficiency of inertial sensors: Inertial sensors record precise and detailed gait patterns. This non-invasive method facilitates early detection and is particularly gentle on the dog.

Study on kinematic analysis in dogs

How kinematic analysis detects gait disturbances at an early stage

During the study, 54 dogs between 12 weeks and 15 months were examined at regular intervals. The gait parameters recorded were analyzed for their variance and assigned to healthy dogs and dogs with HD. It was found that HD dogs developed an unsteady gait pattern with increasing age. These results confirm that the use of kinematic analysis in dogs can make an important contribution to the prevention of hip dysplasia.

Prevention and therapy through kinematic analysis in dogs

In this study, 54 dogs were examined at regular intervals from 12 weeks to 15 months of age using a gait analysis system based on inertial measurement sensors. At the end of the study, the dogs were examined for hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) under sedation and officially classified at the Dysplasia Commission in Zurich. Gait parameters which are characteristic for the gait pattern of dogs, were calculated according to recent publications. These parameters were analysed for variance throughout the entire study period and assigned to healthy dogs and those suffering from HD. The findings of the study show that dogs suffering from HD exhibit a more unsteady gait pattern, e.g. higher variance, as they grow.

Die Studie vollständig lesen

Read the scientific article in the Journal Veterinary and Animal Science, Volume 25, September 2024 for further insights.