Explanation for hyenas asymmetric legs length?

Question

Hyenas seem to have disproportionately short hind legs. It may be the opposite, maybe the front ones lengthened to raise their heads even higher than their already long necks do. In any case, this trait is not seen in any other cursorial animal (that I know), asymmetry is not a good Ally in the long run. So why?

Answer 1

The advantage the disproportionate front legs brings has nothing to do with the legs at all. Hyenas need the strong forelegs to support their heavy necks and heads. Hyenas' lives revolve around their incredible jaw strength, which allows them to bite through bone and defend themselves. In order to have such massive bite pressure, they have massive jaws and jaw muscles. This makes their heads heavy, so they need strong necks and shoulders to support them. And from there, strong chests and front legs to support their necks. Their hind legs are not as necessary, so they are not as muscled, leading to the disproportionate look.