External mechanical perturbations challenge postural stability in dogs

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the effect of external mechanical perturbations on postural stability (PS) in dogs using the body center of pressure (COP). Thirteen sound adult dogs were included in this study. PS was tested during quiet standing on a pressure measurement plate. The conditions included a standard standing measurement and external mechanical perturbations conducted using six settings on a motorized training platform with different intensities of speed and amplitude. Measurement conditions were compared using linear mixed-effects models, followed by multiple comparisons using Sidak’s alpha correction procedure. Compared with the standing measurement, external mechanical perturbations resulted in a significant increase in almost all COP parameters, indicating a challenge for the PS. Furthermore, an increase in amplitude had a greater effect than an increase in speed, whereas the combination of the highest intensities of amplitude and speed was not well tolerated by the dogs. The mediolateral COP displacement was significantly greater than the craniocaudal COP displacement during standing measurement and conditions with a small amplitude, whereas no significant difference was observed during settings with an increased amplitude. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the effects of a balance training device in dogs. Therefore, the intensity of the training programs on motorized platforms or similar devices can be controlled by the wobbling amplitude of the platform.

The Effect of Therapeutic Exercise on Body Weight Distribution, Balance, and Stifle Function in Dogs following Stifle Injury

“…Carrillo et al [ 17 ] demonstrated a higher sway in lame dogs with CCL rupture and elbow dysplasia compared to healthy ones; hence, muscle strength could be of importance for balance control in dogs with stifle injury. Recent studies [ 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 ] measured postural sway by observing changes in the center of pressure (COP), using force or pressure plates, in both the mediolateral and craniocaudal directions. Lutonsky et al [ 19 ] used three-dimensional circular movements to challenge standing balance in healthy dogs and found a significant increase in multiple COP parameters with greater movement in the mediolateral direction than craniocaudal.…”

“…Recent studies [ 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 ] measured postural sway by observing changes in the center of pressure (COP), using force or pressure plates, in both the mediolateral and craniocaudal directions. Lutonsky et al [ 19 ] used three-dimensional circular movements to challenge standing balance in healthy dogs and found a significant increase in multiple COP parameters with greater movement in the mediolateral direction than craniocaudal. Dogs with arthrosis of the stifle joint have shown an increase in mediolateral movements compared to healthy dogs [ 21 ], while dogs with osteoarthritis of the elbow or hip joint indicated compensatory changes in the COP within the paws [ 20 ].…”