A recent study published by Ohio State’s College of Veterinary Medicine focuses on agility dogs.
Information like this closes critical knowledge gaps, leading to better reflection on sports strategy. Preventative care becomes more efficient, providing updated training recommendations.
The study specifically examines risk factors for injury in the border collie, which represents one of the most popular breeds in agility. Surprisingly, some findings differ from what is generally seen in the broader canine sports population.
If this has piqued your curiosity, the collected data is also interesting. It demonstrates an understanding of the common challenges and trends faced over a training career and season, including statistics on:
- Age elbow height jumps were introduced
- Age backside jumps were introduced
- Number of weekends competing a year
- Number of national events attended
Injuries were separated into two types: those requiring at least a week off from competition and training, and those requiring an extended recovery period of three months or more. Scroll down to the discussion in particular, which provides a fantastic examination of the data to date, as well as highlights the intense need for more research in this field. Does variable structure affect results, handling style or training basis?
Studies like this provide the basis for asking better questions, investigating new ideas, and challenging our assumptions. It is invaluable to have authors like these championing the cause of working dogs.
This is an open access study available below, meaning it is free and accessible for everyone to read.
Reference
1Pechette Markley, A.; Shoben, A.B.; Kieves, N.R. Risk Factors for Injury in Border Collies Competing in Agility Competitions. Animals 2024, 14, 2081. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14142081