Introduction
Shoulder injuries are a common problem among both humans and dogs. Improperly selected walking accessories, such as leashes and harnesses, can contribute to these ailments. In this article, we will discuss how proper selection of leashes and harnesses can help prevent shoulder injuries in both species. We will also present current scientific research related to this issue, as well as practical tips on dog leash handling techniques.
Shoulder Anatomy in Humans and Dogs In Humans The human shoulder joint is one of the most mobile joints in the body, making it susceptible to injury. It consists of several joints:
- Shoulder joint: Connects the head of the humerus to the acetabulum of the scapula.
- Shoulder-clavicular joint: Connects the clavicle to the shoulder process of the scapula.
- Sternoclavicular joint: Connects the clavicle to the sternum. The stability of these joints is provided by muscles, tendons and ligaments. Excessive loads, such as a dog pulling a leash, can lead to overload and micro-injury to these structures. Sudden jerks or prolonged strain on the shoulder muscles by the handler can increase the risk of rotator cone damage or tendonitis. How to prevent this?
- Use a leash with a shock absorber that reduces the force of sudden jerks.
- Teach your dog to walk on a loose leash.
- Use proper techniques to guide your dog: keep the leash close to your torso so that your hand remains in a natural position.
- For dogs with great strength, consider special hip belts to reduce pressure on the shoulders.
In dogs
In dogs, the shoulder joint also has great mobility, which is essential for effective movement. It consists of: - Shoulder joint: Connects the humerus to the shoulder blade.
- Stabilizing muscles: Supraspinatus, subscapularis, and subscapularis muscles, among others.
Inappropriate harnesses, such as models with narrow straps that run close to the shoulder joint or “Norwegian” type harnesses without proper adjustment, can restrict the mobility of the dog’s shoulder joint, lead to discomfort and, in the long run, injuries.
Types of harnesses and leashes – how to choose the right one?
Guard harness
Guard harnesses have two straps: one running across the chest and the other around the chest. They ensure even pressure distribution and do not restrict the mobility of the shoulder joint, making them the safest choice for active dogs.
Norwegian-type harnesses
They are characterized by a horizontal strap that runs across the dog’s chest. Although they are easy to put on, they can restrict movement of the shoulder blade and shoulder joint in some dogs.
“no-pull” (restraining) harnesses
Designed for learning to walk on a leash. Although they are effective in minimizing pulling, their prolonged use can negatively affect a dog’s biomechanics of movement.
Leash with shock absorber
Reduces the force of sudden jerks, which protects the handler’s shoulder and reduces the risk of injury to the dog.
Rope leash
Made of durable materials, it provides control over strong dogs. Recommended especially for dogs with heavy weights.
Bibliography
- Lafuente, M. P., Provis, L., Schmalz, E. A. (2021). Effects of restrictive and non-restrictive
harnesses on shoulder extension in dogs at walk and trot. Journal of Veterinary Behavior,
30, 88-93. - Pálya, Z., Rácz, K., Nagy, S. (2022). Influence of dog harness design on biomechanics and
movement limitations. Veterinary Research Communications, 46(4), 621-634. - Wong, J. D., Whitlock, J. (2023). Musculoskeletal injury risk in dog owners due to leash
tension forces. Journal of Human Kinetics, 78(1), 51-63. - Hill, A. E., Sutton, R., Milne, C. (2021). Kinematic analysis of canine shoulder motion with
different harness types. Comparative Exercise Physiology, 17(3), 198-210. - Kowalski, P., Nowak, M. (2023). The impact of improper leash handling on human
shoulder injuries. Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Journal, 14(2), 134-145. - Grunewald, M., & Weber, P. (2022). Shoulder Injuries in Dog Owners: A Systematic
Review. Journal of Orthopedic Science, 24(4), 215-229. - Martinez, L., et al. (2023). Impact of Harness Types on Canine Gait and Musculoskeletal
Health. Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology, 33(2), 156-170. - Stevens, A. et al. (2022). The Role of Corrective Equipment in Preventing Dog Walking
Injuries. Journal of Animal Kinetics, 12(5), 211-228. - Evans, K., & Brown, D. (2023). Leash Dynamics and Human Musculoskeletal Risk Factors.
Journal of Canine Studies, 27(1), 32-48. - Sanders, T. et al. (2021). Biomechanical Analysis of Dog Harness Design: Implications for
Joint Health. Journal of Veterinary Orthopedics, 28(3), 187-205. - Lafuente, M. P., Provis, L., Schmalz, E. A. (2021). Effects of restrictive and non-restrictive
harnesses on shoulder extension in dogs at walk and trot. Journal of Veterinary Behavior,
30, 88-93. - Pálya, Z., Rácz, K., Nagy, S. (2022). Influence of dog harness design on biomechanics and
movement limitations. Veterinary Research Communications, 46(4), 621-634. - Wong, J. D., Whitlock, J. (2023). Musculoskeletal injury risk in dog owners due to leash
tension forces. Journal of Human Kinetics, 78(1), 51-63. - Hill, A. E., Sutton, R., Milne, C. (2021). Kinematic analysis of canine shoulder motion with
different harness types. Comparative Exercise Physiology, 17(3), 198-210. - Kowalski, P., Nowak, M. (2023). The impact of improper leash handling on human
shoulder injuries. Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Journal, 14(2), 134-145.
