Keep Your Sporting Dog in Peak Condition with Veterinary Physiotherapy

How Physiotherapy Supports Canine Athletes

Canine sports are rapidly growing in popularity, with many dogs excelling in activities such as agility, obedience, showing, detection work, police work, field trials, and canicross. These sports demand athleticism, focus, and stamina—and just like human athletes, dogs are prone to injuries, strain, and fatigue.

Veterinary physiotherapy plays a key role in supporting these canine athletes by improving performance, preventing injury, aiding recovery, and promoting long-term health.

Common Injuries in Canine Sports

Each sport presents unique physical demands and risks:

• Agility – Fast-paced jumping and weaving can lead to ligament injuries (like CCL tears), muscle strains, and joint stress, especially in the shoulders and lower back.

• Obedience – Repetitive motions can cause overuse injuries, muscle imbalances, and spinal misalignment.

• Show Dogs – Prolonged stacking and specific gait patterns may result in postural and movement abnormalities.

• Detection & Police Dogs – Repetitive, weight-bearing tasks increase the risk of back pain, tight muscles, and joint strain.

• Field Trials – Running on uneven terrain leads to joint strain, soft tissue injuries, and fatigue.

• Canine-Cross – Sustained endurance work can cause joint wear, tendon injuries, and muscle fatigue.

How Physiotherapy Helps Sporting Dogs Thrive

1. Prevention & Conditioning

• Strengthens core and stabilizing muscles

• Improve flexibility and proprioception

• Identifies and corrects minor imbalances

• Manages chronic conditions like arthritis
  
  

• Result: Fewer injuries and longer careers

2. Competition Support

• On-site care to relieve muscle tightness and improve range of motion

• Techniques like massage, mobilization, and laser therapy to keep dogs at their best
  
  

• Result: Improved performance and comfort during events

3. Post-Competition Recovery

• Eases soreness, reduces fatigue, and restores balance

• Ongoing conditioning to rebuild strength, coordination, and mobility

• Corrects imbalances caused by repetitive movements

• Provides rehabilitation for injury recovery and post-surgical care
  
  

• Result: Faster recovery and long-term wellness

Why Invest in Physiotherapy for Your Dog?

1. Enhanced performance and endurance

2. Reduced risk of injury

3. Faster recovery times

4. Improved mobility, comfort, and confidence

5. Greater career longevity in sports

Veterinary physiotherapy is not just for recovery—it’s a proactive tool for building resilient, high-performing dogs.Whether your dog is competing or just starting their athletic journey, physiotherapy ensures they’re fit, happy, and ready for every challenge.