Stress- or Arousal-Related Behaviours in Agility Dogs Attending Centres with Different Training Approaches: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Agility is a canine sport that requires both physical ability and close coordination between dogs and their handlers. Although agility is often regarded as a positive activity for dogs, it may also elicit stress or heightened arousal. In this
exploratory study, handler-reported behaviours of 52 agility dogs were assessed across five stages of agility participation: on the way to the agility club (T0), upon arrival (T1), during training (T2), during breaks (T3) and when leaving the club (T4). Of these dogs, 36 attended a centre where aversive training techniques were used (Centre
A), whereas 16 attended a centre that relied primarily on non-aversive methods (Centre B). Handlers from Centre A were more likely to report barking during training and breaks, as well as a greater number of behaviours considered potential indicators of stress or heightened arousal during training, than handlers from Centre B (p < 0.05). Given the exploratory design, small sample size, several confounding factors, and the absence of correction for multiple comparisons, the findings should not be interpreted as evidence that the observed differences were attributable solely to the training approach. Further research using larger samples, better control of potential confounding factors, and complementary behavioural and physiological measures is needed to draw more robust conclusions.