DOGS of all breeds from West Devon and East Cornwall are needed for a canine fitness programme that will get tails wagging.

The UK is a nation of dog lovers and now researchers at Duchy College are hoping to study the way our canines walk in a bid to understand their biomechanics.

The scientists plan on using a canine treadmill to measure the gait of man's best friend and are looking for some willing participants, keen for 'walkies' of a different kind.

The study will assess the function of the body as a whole by evaluating its individual components.

The anatomy of a dog's body is designed symmetrically and in theory the movements of the right side should mirror the movements of the left side; if it doesn't then this can lead to problems in later life.

The research is being carried out by Mhairi Collins, a student studying the FdSc in Animal health and Management at Stoke Climsland and she will be using the latest in canine technology; a FitFurLife treadmill, which is fitted with analysis software.

Mhairi said: 'I'm really enjoying the course and learning about a wide variety of species.

'It's enabled me to focus on my species of interest — dogs — and I'm so excited to start using the treadmill for my research.

'I've applied to Plymouth University for the BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare and if successful, I'll be able to continue using the treadmill for my research.'

FitFurLife treadmills have been developed thanks to the backing of James Caan from the BBC's Dragon's Den and they are currently the market leader in an exciting developing animal health sector.

The funding for the treadmill came from the Cornwall College Research Committee, which enables students and staff to participate in innovative and world class research.

Course manager for the FdSc in animal health management, Michelle Chappell, said: 'Being able to facilitate, engage and support our students in scholarly activity, observing them expanding current knowledge, expertise and understanding in their specialist subject area is both exciting and an honour.

'By encouraging our students to become autonomous learners we enable them to disseminate their knowledge through publications, peer teaching and applied research.

'Securing the academic use of research findings for the benefit of animal health and welfare remains at the forefront of academic research on the FdSc animal health and management at Duchy College.'

Willing dogs are now being sought to take part in this research; size and breed doesn't matter, but they must be 12 months or older.

Owners can find out more by calling 01579 372304.