A slip model to predict the dynamics of rapid tetrapod locomotion during hind-leg single support

Greyhounds are the fastest canine in the world and sustain unique types of injuries which are rarely seen in other breeds of dogs. Track surface is one of the primary injury contributing factors. There has been little research on the interaction of greyhound’s dynamics with the track surface. Thus, in this study, a three degrees-of-freedom model of greyhounds' body and underneath surface using spring loaded inverted pendulum modelling is designed. The results showed that the forces acting on the hind-leg were substantially affected when the surface compliance altered from relatively hard (natural grass) to relatively soft one (synthetic rubber). The forces acting on the hind-leg were almost nine times that of the forces acting on the dog's centre of mass for natural grass surfaces. This highlights the importance of optimum surface design in the safety and welfare of these animals.