How do dogs negotiate the flyball box?- Descriptive analysis of the box turn dynamics

Studies pertaining to flyball biomechanics are scarce despite the high frequency of injury in flyball dogs. The objective of this study was to describe the phases of the box turn and the technique employed by canine athletes during flyball runs. 181 videos of 32 dogs performing the box turn were analysed. Data observed from video evaluation included approach gait, velocity of approach, approach technique, take-off technique, sequence of limbs at contact and landing, elevation of the CoM, trunk angle during take-off, etc. Results showed a high variability inter-dogs, but an intra-dog consistence in obstacle performance. The average horizontal (v _x ) approach velocity was 7.27 ± 0.79 m/s and the mean dimensionless velocity (Froude number) was 3.34 ± 0.47. The approach speed was faster on running approach (7.37 ± 0.81ms ^− 1 ) than in the decelerated approach (7.1 ± 0.7 ms ^− 1 ), where a distinct braking phase was observed. Regarding turn style, 105 (58%) runs were completed using a angled turn, where dogs avoided impacting the box straight, whilst the remaining 75 (41.4%) runs used a direct turn style. Given the high variation in velocity and technique, we could not identify clear patterns, but the phases of the obstacle could be clearly described. We could conclude that individual dog technique is very consistent, and we described some patterns associated with the box angle. Further studies in quantitative kinematics and kinetics are needed to clarify the effects of the different box angles, used in the sport, in the musculoskeletal system.