Re: Will bench legs lead to joint problems?

In Reply to: Will bench legs lead to joint problems?
Category:   Medical
Posted by:  Celine
Posted on:  January 31, 2003 at 14:20:30

: Hello,

: Someone recently told me that dogs with east-west legs are most likely to develop joint problems later on in their lives coz they are putting pressure wrongly on the legs. My JRT has bench legs at the front, this is the same as having east-west legs, yes? I was wondering whether this is true? If so, then what about breeds that have these kind of legs naturally, like the Basset Hound or Dachshund? Won't they all be affected? Is there any way I can avoid having any problems in the future?

Response:

Dear Celine,

You are correct -- bench legs are the same as east-west legs. :-)

To my knowledge, the main issue with bench legs is that form can interfere with function with regard to a JRT's ability to work underground. I am unaware of any research that shows that a JRT with this conformation is likely to develop joint problems.

Regards,
Leslie