Video analysis of walking and trotting gaits in Rhodesian Ridgeback and Rottweiler dogs

The aim of this study was to evaluate the locomotion of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Rottweiler dogs during walking and trotting, as well as to characterize the gait pattern of each breed through video analysis. Twenty healthy adult male dogs not subjected to surgical contraception were included, with 10 Rhodesian Ridgebacks (Group A) and 10 Rottweilers (Group B). The dogs were recorded using a digital camera while moving over a five-meter track, first at a walk and then at a trot. Gait evaluation included time (in seconds) to complete the distance, average velocity, limb support sequence, and support time (in frames) at each stage of the movement. Velocity was determined by counting the number of frames required to traverse the five-meter track. While intra-breed gait patterns were consistent, Rhodesian Ridgebacks displayed a more aerial gait with longer suspension phases, whereas Rottweilers exhibited a more grounded gait with fewer suspension moments. The findings suggest that gait sequence patterns are influenced by breed-specific morphological characteristics.