Anatomical question

[Jordan]

Strange question but how do dogs put on the brakes??

When they're running hard and go to stop is it the front legs that do the work?

Domino lameness on right side is still a problem and now his front left leg is going from him at times. I noticed a change in the way he runs lately. When hes been running his back legs are set further apart than normal especially as he slows down. Is this because his front legs are worse?

[Adrianne]

I don't know the answer to your question, but I do know that the power from a dog all comes through the back legs, to render the dogs back legs useless (as in a fight - you would lift the dog in a 'wheelbarrow')prevents the dog from pushing on. The muscles in the back legs slow to 'brake' - think of it as 'rear wheel drive'
imagine an exagerated cartoon cat being chased by a cartoon dog around a corner - the cat is front wheel drive - will scramble with front legs for a grip to turn the corner at speed, while the dog will scramble with the hind legs to not overrun the corner. (his back end will swing wide of the corner)

[Jordan]

So that sounds more like his back legs are losing strength and abillity.

[Adrianne]

I watched Cupar running after a rabbit this morning - he had to brake when the rabbit turned direction and he realised there was a six foot fence in front of him.
definatey his back legs had caused the speed but his front legs were like shock absorbers and brake pads too, he used them to skid to a halt almost, so I think it is not one or the other but a case of both front and rear having an important part in braking. Just different jobs.

[Kimmikins]

Have the vets found anything to hint at why he might be experiencing the lameness?

[Jordan]

Yes Adrianne I saw that clearly today. Left front leg is very lame now and I saw how much trouble Domino was having trying to stop even from a tiny run out in the garden.

[Jordan]

They've excluded a lot Kimmikins, not sure if you've seen the update in Lafora post about his recent xrays, which has narrowed it down to a brain problem so it looks like a trip to neurologist next.

[kristina]

Oh Jordan got to be a reason for the lameness here maybe just a sprain and a good rest for him for awhile hope it all gets sorted for the both of you,please let us know.Kristina

[Jordan]

I wish it was Kristina but its been developing for a while just suddenly got worse.

Unfortunately we have more problems. Came back from the hospital today and found hed been sick, got it cleared up and let him out for toilet and then he was sick again then again later tonight, hes not at all himself. Didnt give him any dinner tonight just a wee treat to get his seizure meds down, so we'll see how he goes overnight.

[kristina]

I missed your last post Jordan have just read it wish you all the luck in the world with the Neurologist,bless this dog he has such a wonderful owner and a lovely life with you must be a terrible worry.Kristina

[Jordan]

Thanks Kristina, did you get the PM i sent you a few days back?

[kristina]

I will be thinking of you Jordan,god bless xxxKristina

[kristina]

PM message??? no but I have just clocked a message,sorry Jordan will read now,never think to look as never get any!!!!Kristina

[Kimmikins]

Poor little guy. I read about the neurological theory, I just hope they can get to the bottom of it soon! If it is physiological rather than neurological, would hydrotherapy be of any benefit? It would help him strengthen his muscles without the strain of him running full pelt on them.

[Adrianne]

there are some fanatastic canine massage professional out there too.