Canine sports from agility to dock diving are growing in popularity. Preventing injuries and ensuring appropriate conditioning is essential for the welfare of dogs participating in competitive activities.
Canine sport welfare requires that dogs are genuine willing participants, not just compliant performers. Dogs who find sport work rewarding show enthusiasm, high arousal before events, and willing engagement — those who are stressed or unwilling show avoidance, low energy, and stress signals. Physical preparation including appropriate conditioning, warmup routines, and recovery between events protects against injury. Waiting until skeletal growth plates close before intensive jump training is important for agility. Regular veterinary and physiotherapy assessment helps identify subclinical pain that might affect performance and welfare. The best canine sport community members view welfare and performance as aligned rather than competing goals.