Really cool~! Reminds me alot of an old character of mine actually!

very interesting; I agree with the weapon change of placement, would make recoil much easier to handle. the AI head is nicely done; if I might make a crituque/suggestion? I'd keep the tail as a counterbalance/gyro system, perhaps with a short range defensive weapon system on the tip, like a taser or such, in case the main weapon becomes disabled or for melee combat.

Well, that could work, but the Hellhound mechs come with FN Five-Sevens, and since their forepaws can unfold into hands, they can use them when necessary, but obviously this will slow them down.

*nods* I was thinking something dual purpose; won't slow them down but would provide additional jump and running balance, like a cheetah's tail for high-speed maneuvers. Perhaps a comparatively short tail with a weight on one end, like a mace? would add to the stability and balance for high speed, be an incredibly nasty melee weapon, and could also have misc. gear for the mission payload, like a droppable transponder or possibly a timed explosive.