Stationary jump tests demonstrate potential as objective return-to-sport outcomes based on hind limb symmetry in healthy dogs.

Best-attempt hind limb symmetry exceeded 90% in healthy dogs across all three stationary jump test variations.

This prospective methodological study evaluated three stationary jump test variations as potential objective return-to-sport assessments in orthopedically and neurologically normal dogs by measuring hind limb push-off symmetry. Twenty healthy dogs performed five valid trials of each of three jump test modifications: stand-to-head-height jump, stand-to-withers-height jump with side rails, and sit-to-withers-height jump onto a platform. Peak vertical force of the hind limbs was measured and expressed as a symmetry percentage. When averaging all five trials per test, mean symmetry indices fell below the hypothesized 90% threshold for all three variations: 83.27% (stand-to-head-height), 73.49% (stand-to-withers with rails), and 67.39% (sit-to-withers-height). Notably, when only each dog's best attempt was evaluated, symmetry exceeded 90% across all three modifications: 96.90%, 92.34%, and 94.39%, respectively. The failure to consistently achieve 90% symmetry across averaged trials in healthy dogs suggests that scoring methodology significantly impacts interpretation of jump test results. The finding that best-attempt scores exceeded 90% in normal dogs supports further investigation into whether best-attempt scoring may be a more clinically relevant metric. These jump tests offer a potentially accessible, objective tool for assessing canine recovery from orthopedic and neurologic conditions, though further standardization of protocols and scoring methods is needed before widespread clinical implementation.

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