Published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, this study by N. Kieves, A. Shoben, and A. P. Markley used an extensive internet-based survey of 4,197 dogs actively participating in agility within the previous three years. Injuries were defined as stifle-related conditions that prevented competition for more than one week.
Among the 216 dogs with reported stifle injuries, the majority involved cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture (101 cases) or patellar luxation (40 cases). Logistic regression models revealed five variables with independent associations to injury risk (in addition to the dog’s age).
• Increased body weight (adjusted for height): Heavier dogs were significantly more likely to sustain injury.
• Border Collie breed: This breed showed the highest risk among all surveyed, consistent with their intense athletic drive and biomechanics.
• Early neutering/spaying: Male dogs neutered before 10 months and females spayed before their first heat cycle had elevated injury risk.
• Handler age: Dogs handled by individuals aged 18–24 years had greater injury odds compared to those with handlers aged 65+.
• Teeter contact behavior: Certain approaches or mechanics on the teeter obstacle were associated with increased injury likelihood.
Importantly, the researchers found no association between injury risk and number of competition days or runs per day, contrary to their initial hypothesis. This suggests that dog-specific factors—such as fitness level, structural conformation, and genetic predisposition—may play a more significant role than workload frequency.
The study emphasizes careful attention to body condition, breeding decisions, spay/neuter timing, and equipment training to minimize orthopedic injury risks in agility athletes.
Source: Kieves, N., Shoben, A., & Markley, A. P. (2024). Risk Factors for the Development of Stifle Injuries in Canine Agility Athletes. Frontiers in Veterinary Science. Published February 14, 2024.
