What Is The Dog With The Strongest Legs?

Although these limbs support the weight of the dog, the largest breed does not have to have the strongest legs

With regard to the anatomy of the dog, its legs are usually a recurring object of study. These are the ones that  support the entire weight of the animal and bear the responsibility for the normal development of the dog. You will be surprised to learn that the dog with the strongest legs is not necessarily the largest.

According to their morphology, dogs can be classified into three types. The thin and tall (ectomorphic), those with high fat content (endomorphic) and the muscular (mesomorphic). Typically, the dogs with the strongest legs are in the latter classification.

Dog paws

The dog’s paws are made up of the claws, the pads, the metacarpal pad, the carpal pad, and the spur. The whole weight of the dog is supported on the fingers. The work of the pads and the metacarpal consists of minimizing the impacts of the footsteps; the carpal pad works as a brake on slippery floors.

The structure of the dog’s legs differs between the front and rear. For the most part, the former are known as cat’s feet; They bear this name because they have an appearance similar to that of these cats. On the other hand, the later ones are called hare’s feet due to their similarity to this species.

Through their paws, dogs perspire and stay cool despite the heat of the ground. Even  pads have a layer of blubber that insulates the internal temperature of the body of the can. With these characteristics, the dog does not get cold even in freezing weather. Perspiration also occurs when the dog is stressed or nervous.

6 dog breeds with the strongest legs

1. When it comes to big and strong dogs, the Newfoundland ranks first. It is a common dog in cold environments, so it is not surprising that it has very strong legs. The shape and arrangement of their claws makes them excellent swimmers. 

1. Saint Bernard. In addition to being large, the Saint Bernard is a robust dog. Their legs are usually thick and strong to be able to move in the snow, in winter time. They can measure up to 90 centimeters in height. 

1. Great dane The Great Dane can weigh up to 100 kilos and measure more than two meters. To support such a size, it requires very strong legs. Additionally, the Great Dane is a muscular dog, a peculiarity that extends to its limbs. Their legs are usually wide and of great tread. 

1. Although this species is not as tall as the Great Dane, it can achieve a similar weight; this is one reason why their legs are very similar. The bullmastiff is of English origin and results from the cross between the English mastiff and the bulldog. The result of this combination is a very muscular dog.   

1. Rhodesian Ridgeback. This dog of South African origin has a sterile and muscular build. It is characterized by being agile and fast, which is why it is common in hunting sports. Their front legs are usually very strong, to achieve the necessary momentum in races. 
2. Basset hound. Although their height and build are nowhere near that of large dogs, the Basset has powerful legs. Its robust and compact build forces its short legs to develop a force that attracts attention.

How to care for a dog’s paws

• Hygiene is important first. By having direct contact with the ground, dogs are prone to acquiring fungus or infections on their paws. The habit of cleaning its legs after each walk is a good recommendation.
• Keep your nails short. Fungi can also be spread by the nails through walking through different areas; the way to prevent this risk is to keep them short.
• Keep your pads hydrated. This will prevent cuts or wounds from dryness. In addition, dogs will appreciate a good massage to their paws; To do this, avoid pressing the pads too hard.
• Take care of temperature changes. Very hot pavement can burn dogs’ paws. That is why it is preferable to take daily walks in the early hours of the morning or in the late afternoon.