Getting accurate gait analysis results starts with recording good quality footage of your dog. With the right technique and a couple of practice runs, you'll be capturing professional-grade videos in no time, not to mention your dog enjoying the extra attention! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
📥 Download our Quick Reference Guide: Print our one-page PDF guide to bring with you during recording sessions.
Download PDF Guide →Why Video Quality Matters
PAWSCHECK's AI analyzes subtle movements in your dog's gait that are invisible to the human eye. Clear, well-lit footage from multiple angles allows our algorithms to detect early signs of mobility issues with over 90% accuracy. Poor quality footage might mean missing crucial details that could indicate developing problems.
Before You Start: Setup Checklist
1. Choose the Right Location
Ideal surface: Outdoor hard surfaces like pavement, concrete, or tarmac work best. These provide consistent traction and allow for natural movement.
Avoid: Grass, gravel, sand, or indoor carpeting. These surfaces can mask subtle gait abnormalities and make analysis less accurate.
Space requirements: Look for 20-30 feet of clear, straight path without obstacles, other dogs, or distractions.
2. Lighting is Critical
Best conditions: Overcast days or open shade provide even, diffused lighting that captures detail without harsh shadows.
Avoid: Direct bright sunlight, which creates dark shadows that obscure movement. Also avoid very low light or dusk conditions.
3. Equipment Setup
- ✓Smartphone: Any modern smartphone works. No special camera needed!
- ✓Landscape mode: ALWAYS film horizontally (phone turned sideways). This is crucial!
- ✓Camera height: Crouch down to your dog's eye level. This angle captures the most detail.
- ✓Handler: You'll need someone to walk your dog while you film (or vice versa).
The Recording Sequence
Important: Don't Stop Recording!
Record everything in one continuous take — don't stop between angles but keep recording. It's fine to have a few seconds of pavement or your feet whilst you move into position for the side view, don't stop the video.
Walking Pace Sequence
1. Front View
Position yourself at dog's eye level. Have the handler walk the dog toward you on a loose lead. Stay still - let the dog come to you. Film until the dog is 5-10 feet away.
Key point: Watch for symmetry in front leg movement and head bobbing.
2. Side View
Now, keeping the video rolling, move side on to the path. Remind your handler to walk on the far side of your dog and film as they walk past you. Some camera panning is OK to keep your dog in the frame.
Key point: This angle shows stride length, joint extension, and overall coordination.
3. Rear View
Turn around and film as the dog walks away from you. Keep the camera steady and low.
Key point: Reveals hip movement, rear limb symmetry, and tail carriage.
Trotting Pace (If Your Dog Can)
If your dog is able to trot comfortably, repeat the same three-angle sequence at a faster pace. Trotting reveals different movement patterns and can highlight issues that aren't visible at a walk.
Important: Always follow your vet's advice and instruction regarding exercise and rest requirements. Only ask for a trot if your dog can do so comfortably. Never force speed or movement. If your dog is recovering from injury or has significant mobility issues, walking footage alone is perfectly adequate.
Pro Tips for Perfect Footage
🦮 Loose Lead is Essential
The handler must keep the lead completely slack. A tight lead changes how a dog moves and can mask mobility issues. Practice this before recording.
🚶 Natural Pace Matters
Let your dog move at their comfortable speed. Don't pull them faster or hold them back. We want to see their natural gait.
📱 Stay Low
Filming from standing height loses crucial detail. Crouch or kneel to get the camera at your dog's eye level.
🔄 Consistency Counts
Record the same way each time. This allows PAWSCHECK to accurately track changes over weeks and months.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
My dog won't trot
That's completely fine! Just capture walking footage. Many dogs with mobility concerns can't or won't trot, and we can still analyze walking gait effectively.
I missed an angle
Upload what you have. Partial footage is still valuable, and we can often work with incomplete sequences. More angles = better data, but we're flexible.
My dog gets distracted
Choose quieter times and familiar locations. Do a few practice runs filming or have your friend film whilst you walk or vice versa.
The video is shaky
Brace your elbows against your body. Some shakiness is acceptable - we can compensate for minor camera movement. Don't stress about perfection.
It's raining/snowing
Wait for better weather if possible. Wet surfaces and poor visibility reduce analysis accuracy.
After Recording: What's Next?
Once you've captured your footage:
- Upload the video through the PAWSCHECK app or web portal
- PAWSCHECK will analyse the footage (within hours)
- You'll receive a detailed mobility report with scores and insights
- Share the report with your veterinary surgeon if concerns are flagged
- Remember, always seek veterinary advice if you have any concerns about your dog, whether flagged by PAWSCHECK or not.
Remember: Imperfect is OK!
The most important thing is consistency over perfection. Don't stress if your first few videos aren't ideal. You'll get better with practice, and we can work with less-than-perfect footage. The goal is regular monitoring, not cinematography awards.
Quick Wins: Before Your Next Recording
- →Scout your location and practice the walking path
- →Check the weather forecast for optimal lighting conditions
- →Practice loose-lead walking with your handler
- →Download and print our PDF guide to bring along
- →Do a test run without recording to get your dog comfortable
Need Help?
Our support team is here to help you get the best footage possible. If you're unsure about your video quality or have questions, don't hesitate to reach out.