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The muscles that support the spine play an important role in overall movement, stability, and performance in especially active dogs. Cynthia M. Otto, DVM, PhD, DACVECC, DACVSMR, and her team at the Penn Vet Working Dog Center are examining how an exercise regimen changes core muscle structure and performance scores in healthy dogs in a Canine Health Foundation funded project*.
For dogs who work, compete, train or simply love to be active, this research matters. The dogs in the study are active pet dogs rather than elite competitors, making the research especially meaningful for many dogs whose lives include regular activity, such as hiking, regular play, jogging or training for a sport or performance activity.
Source: Canine Health Foundation, July 21, 2026. Link. This project uses strength and fitness testing, a 12-week structured fitness program, and advanced imaging to examine how exercise changes the muscles along the spine that provide stability to the whole body.
*Canine sports medicine and rehabilitation is a growing field in veterinary medicine and researchers are working to understand how specific programs change canine muscle structure and function to benefit dogs.
Related: Structured therapeutic exercise significantly improves joint mobility and muscle mass in dogs, Innovative Veterinary Care, July 17, 2026. Link.
Also see: Beyond exercise: The role of stretching routines for dog joint health, AHD Archives, July 7, 2026. Link.
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