What can you tell from your dog's paw print?

Paw Prints 🐾 🏝️

Have you ever considered what your animal's paw prints might be telling you?

Dogs naturally place more weight through their front feet. Dogs stand with 60% of weight through their frontlimbs and 40% through their hindlimbs.

However, looking at Maia’s paw prints in the sand, it shows the stark difference between the weight distribution of her front and back legs as a result of her hip dysplasia.

🔹In the images, the front foot is far deeper in the sand showing the extra force through that limb. It also shows widening of the front paw into a splayed position.

Whereas the hind foot has a much smaller surface area with less weight through it.

Frankie’s footprints are a lot more even in comparison; she is a dog with no diagnosed medical conditions🔹

This is so interesting to visualise the extra strain and compensations the body goes through when there is dysfunction.

As Maia is compromised in her hips, she pushes more weight forward to relieve pressure. This may eventually lead to discomfort in those front limbs from overloading, so it is vital to consider the whole of the dog and not just the injury at present.

Have you ever noticed anything like this with your pet? It’s something to look out for next time you head to the beach 🏖️

If you have any concerns or questions about your animal, please get in touch and we can help figure it out 🐾

💻 www.wrekinveterinaryphysiotherapy.co.uk

📧 lucy@wrekinveterinaryphysiotherapy.co.uk

📞 07776 689 754