Issue 5(1): ~ Soundness of the Athletic Dog

Soundness is one of the most important factors in canine performance. The functions and activity of athletic dogs can be affected by low-grade unsoundness. Diagnosing the performance related MuSk issues seen in athletic and working dogs that do not cause gait abnormality can be a great challenge to the general veterinary practitioner. These problems could be treated or managed if they were identified, but their diagnosis is difficult. A successful diagnostic history will help identify when the problem first surfaced, which area of anatomy is involved and the significance of the problem. The first step in any performance workup is to identify the primary and, if present, any secondary or tertiary problems.