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Essner A, Hesbach AL, Igelström H, Kjellerstedt C, Svensson K, Westerlind H. Physical activity and sport-specific training patterns in Swedish sporting and working trial dogs-A questionnaire survey. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:976000. [PMID: 36387412 PMCID: PMC9664515 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.976000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore physical activity patterns, including conditioning exercise and sport-specific training, and management routines utilized by handlers of Swedish sporting and working dogs participating in agility, obedience, rally obedience and working trial disciplines. PROCEDURES Dog handlers provided information on competition-level dogs through an internet-based cross-sectional and descriptive survey on physical activity, sport-specific training and management. Results are reported overall and stratified by participation in specific disciplines. RESULTS We received 1615 replies to the questionnaire. After data cleaning, 1582 dogs (98%) remained for the analysis. Of these, 430 participated in agility, 790 in obedience, 596 in rally obedience, and 847 dogs had competed in a working trial, i.e., messenger, protection, search or tracking. Number of disciplines performed by each dog varied between one and five. Most common was participation in one (n = 767, 48%) or two (n = 541, 34%) disciplines. Out of the dogs competing in one discipline, 38% (n = 294) were considered to be specialized as they actively trained only that discipline for ≥10 months per year. The vast majority of the dogs (n = 1129, 71%) received more than 1 h of daily physical activity, e.g., walks, and only n = 51 (3%) were never exercised off-leash. Preferred self-selected gait was trot (n = 907, 57%) and gallop (n = 499, 32%). A fifth (n = 319, 20%) never played with other dogs. The majority (n = 1328, 84%) received more than 1 h of vigorous physical conditioning exercise per week. Almost three quarters (n = 1119, 71%) participated in physical conditioning exercise. Two thirds (n = 953, 60%) participated in at least 3 h of sport-specific training per week and only a very small portion (n = 35, 2%) trained their specific discipline less than once per week. Median total work load, i.e., all daily physical activity, vigorous physical conditioning exercise and sport-specific training, was 16.5 h per week. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE We observe physical activity at moderate to high durations and moderate to vigorous intensities among Swedish sporting and working trial dogs. Most dogs received physical conditioning exercise, but not all dogs were warmed up before training and competition. Our study provides veterinary professionals and dog trainers with valuable insights on the physical exposures and management routines of sporting and working trial dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Essner
- Djurkliniken Gefle, IVC Evidensia, Gävle, Sweden,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden,*Correspondence: Ann Essner
| | | | - Helena Igelström
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | | | - Helga Westerlind
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Marcato M, Kenny J, O’Riordan R, O’Mahony C, O’Flynn B, Galvin P. Assistance dog selection and performance assessment methods using behavioural and physiological tools and devices. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Mach R, Wiegel PS, Bach JP, Beyerbach M, Kreienbrock L, Nolte I. Evaluation of a Treadmill-Based Submaximal Fitness Test in Pugs, and Collecting Breed-Specific Information on Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12121585. [PMID: 35739921 PMCID: PMC9219451 DOI: 10.3390/ani12121585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In the present study, a submaximal fitness test on a treadmill was evaluated to assess its feasibility under standardised conditions. Moreover, its effectiveness in identifying pugs with clinical signs of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome was examined. It was apparent that respiratory symptoms can be exposed during the fitness test, and intensified with an increased duration of exercise. This method of testing improves the clinical evaluation of the dogs and helps identify restrictions due to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. Since most of the dogs could be familiarised with the treadmill, it may be a feasible option for performing fitness tests in brachycephalic dogs. Major benefits, therefore, are that each dog can be closely monitored during the entire process, and that the examination can be conducted under standardised conditions. Abstract Despite efforts of veterinarians and breeders, brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is still a common problem in pugs, underlining the need for objective tests to identify and prevent breeding with affected dogs. In the current study, a submaximal, treadmill-based fitness test was evaluated as a tool to identify signs of airway obstruction not recognisable under rest conditions. In addition to this, different body conformation and measurements were assessed regarding their association with BOAS. A total of 62 pugs and 10 mesocephalic dogs trotted with an individual comfort speed on a treadmill for 15 min. Before and during the examination, dogs were examined for signs of respiratory distress, and a functional BOAS grading was applied. The influence of body conformation on BOAS grading was tested in a univariable and multivariable logistic regression model. During exercise, more respiratory noises were observed, and existing respiratory noises became more apparent in comparison to when at rest. In the multivariable logistic regression model, no factor had a statistically significant influence on BOAS classification. Submaximal fitness testing helped to identify signs of respiratory distress not apparent under resting conditions, and could be a valuable addition for identifying dogs with BOAS. Performing testing on a treadmill facilitates continuous observation of the patients, and enables standardisation of the test regarding the test environment, as well as provides an uninterrupted, steady workload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka Mach
- Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (P.S.W.); (J.-P.B.)
- Correspondence: (R.M.); (I.N.)
| | - Pia S. Wiegel
- Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (P.S.W.); (J.-P.B.)
| | - Jan-Peter Bach
- Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (P.S.W.); (J.-P.B.)
| | - Martin Beyerbach
- Institute for Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.B.); (L.K.)
| | - Lothar Kreienbrock
- Institute for Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.B.); (L.K.)
| | - Ingo Nolte
- Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (P.S.W.); (J.-P.B.)
- Correspondence: (R.M.); (I.N.)
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Orozco SC, Arias MP, Carvajal PA, Gallo‐Villegas J, Olivera‐Angel M. Efficacy of high-intensity interval training compared with moderate-intensity continuous training on maximal aerobic potency in dogs: Trial protocol for a randomised controlled clinical study. Vet Rec Open 2021; 8:e4. [PMID: 33981438 PMCID: PMC8109980 DOI: 10.1002/vro2.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a more efficient method to improve exercise capacity than moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) because of its greater physiological stimulus. OBJECTIVE The aim of this protocol is to evaluate the efficacy of HIIT on maximal aerobic potency in dogs as compared to MICT. METHODS This protocol is for a randomised, blinded controlled clinical trial, with three parallel groups for the purpose of demonstrating superiority. Thirty dogs aged between 12 and 84 months of both sexes and different breeds will be included. Dogs, before initiating and after finalising the training will perform an incremental exercise test on a treadmill to obtain maximal speed and lactate threshold; resting parameters of heart and respiratory rate, left ventricle chamber and systolic function will be measured. Dogs assigned to each intervention will endure a 42-min session of HIIT or MICT during 12 weeks. HIIT comprises four intervals of 4 min each at a load of 85%, alternating with a 4-min resting period. MICT group will have a continuous load of 60%. The control group will remain in a cage. An intention-to-treat statistical analysis will be implemented. Analysis of covariance will be used to estimate the effect of HIIT compared with MICT training on maximal aerobic potency, aerobic resistance, systolic function at rest, left ventricle chamber measurements and indexes, respiratory rate and HR at rest. CONCLUSION Significant time and effort are invested into training sports/working dogs, which could benefit from improving physical capacity by means of the HIIT methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia C. Orozco
- Biogenesis Research GroupFacultad de Ciencias AgrariasUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínAntioquiaColombia
| | | | - Pablo A. Carvajal
- Servicio de CardiologíaHospital VeterinarioFacultad de Ciencias AgrariasUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínAntioquiaColombia
| | | | - Martha Olivera‐Angel
- Biogenesis Research GroupFacultad de Ciencias AgrariasUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínAntioquiaColombia
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Effects of Interval Exercise Training on Serum Biochemistry and Bone Mineral Density in Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092528. [PMID: 34573494 PMCID: PMC8468388 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this study, six male beagle dogs underwent 12 weeks of interval exercise following the Frequency, Intensity, Time/duration, Type, Volume, and Progression (FITT-VP) training principle. The heart rate (HR) response was measured during the entire exercise period, and changes in bone mineral density (BMD), muscle volume (MV), and hematology and serum biomarkers were evaluated at the pre-exercise training period and post-exercise training period. We showed that exercise training increased BMD in the femur and serum total alkaline phosphatase (TALP), aspartate aminotransferase, and creatine kinase levels. In addition, our data suggest a positive correlation between BMD and TALP, demonstrating that increased TALP might be an important contributing factor for enhancing BMD with physical training in dogs. Abstract Exercise has been suggested as a powerful intervention for health care and fitness management in humans; however, few studies have demonstrated the benefits of exercise training in dogs. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of exercise training on heart rate (HR), bone mineral density (BMD), muscle volume (MV), and hematological and serum biomarkers in dogs. Six healthy beagles completed the interval treadmill exercise, developed on the basis of the FITT principle, two times a week for 12 weeks. To evaluate the physiological parameters, the HR values were analyzed using the Polar H10 system during the entire exercise period. At pre-and post-exercise, quantitative computed tomography and hematological and serum biochemical parameters were analyzed. The interval exercise resulted in a normal HR response and no adverse behavioral or physiological effects on the dogs. We showed that exercise improved BMD in the femur (541.6 ± 16.7 vs. 610.2 ± 27.8 HA, p < 0.01) and increased serum total alkaline phosphatase (TALP; 68.6 ± 9.2 vs. 81.3 ± 17.2, p < 0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (23.5 ± 1.0 vs. 33.5 ± 1.6, p < 0.01), and creatine kinase (114.8 ± 5.3 vs. 214.0 ± 20.8, p < 0.01) levels. There was a positive relationship between BMD and TALP (femur: r = 0.760, p = 0.004; vertebrae: r = 0.637; p = 0.025). Our findings suggest that interval exercise training is beneficial to increase BMD in the femur, and an increased TALP level would be a concomitant mechanism for enhancing BMD with exercise in dogs.
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Hederstedt S, McGowan C, Essner A. The Immediate Effect of Parachute-Resisted Gallop on Heart Rate, Running Speed and Stride Frequency in Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11071983. [PMID: 34359110 PMCID: PMC8300255 DOI: 10.3390/ani11071983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Physical fitness is needed for canine athletes and working dogs to optimize their performance in various disciplines. Application of resistance on movements causes biomechanical and cardiorespiratory responses to physical exercise. However, there is still a lack of research on the effects of high-intensity resistance exercise on cardiorespiratory fitness components such as heart rate in canine athletes. In this article, we investigate the short-term effects of parachute-resisted galloping on heart rate, running speed and stride frequency. Healthy dogs of various breeds were extensively studied in five experimental single cases. The dogs ran on a straight 200 m course with and without resistive drag force applied by a parachute attached to their harness while heart rate, running speed and stride frequency were measured. Subsequently, the measurements were compared to baseline phases at rest. In the present trials we found that heart rate increases similarly with and without parachute-resistance while dogs galloped at lower speeds and with increased stride frequency with applied drag force. Our findings lead us to suggest that parachute-resisted galloping is a clinically applicable exercise in healthy dogs to achieve instant cardiorespiratory response. Abstract Physical fitness is required for canine athletes and working dogs to optimize performance in various disciplines. There is a lack of research on the effects of resistance exercise on cardiorespiratory variables in dogs. The aim of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of parachute-resisted (PR) gallop on heart rate, running speed and stride frequency compared to unresisted (UR) gallop in dogs. Five N-of-1 trials RCTs with alternating interventions were implemented. Dogs ran on a 200 m course with and without resistive force applied by a parachute attached to their harness while cardiac inter-beat intervals (IBI), running speed and stride frequency were measured. The results were visually displayed and interpreted in graphs and percentage of non-overlapping data estimated effect size. Both interventions showed large effects on heart rate compared to resting values. Mean IBI increased (10–17%) during PR gallop compared to UR gallop although this change was small relative to decreased running speed (19–40%) and increased stride frequency (18–63%). Minimum IBI showed no difference between interventions indicating similar maximum heartbeat per minute. In conclusion, parachute-resistance resulted in dogs galloping at lower speeds at the same cardiorespiratory level of intensity, which may be useful in canine physical rehabilitation and fitness training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Hederstedt
- AniCura Falu Djursjukhus, Samueldalsvägen 2B, SE-791 61 Falun, Sweden;
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Wirral CH64 7TE, UK;
| | - Catherine McGowan
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Wirral CH64 7TE, UK;
| | - Ann Essner
- IVC Evidensia Djurkliniken Gefle, Norra Gatan 1, SE-803 21 Gävle, Sweden
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Box 593, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
- Correspondence: or
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Lee HS, Kim JH. The dog as an exercise science animal model: a review of physiological and hematological effects of exercise conditions. Phys Act Nutr 2021; 24:1-6. [PMID: 33539688 PMCID: PMC7923746 DOI: 10.20463/pan.2020.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] Exercise is a fundamental way to maintain and improve health and physical fitness. Many human studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of exercise on various biological parameters. However, studies investigating the effects of exercise in dogs are limited. This review summarized the current data from studies that examined the effects of different exercise conditions (treadmill vs. non-treadmill and acute vs. chronic) on physiological and hematological parameters in dogs. [Methods] Papers addressing the effects of exercise in dogs published from January 2000 to October 2020 were retrieved from the online databases of Scopus, Google Scholar, and PubMed and were selected and reviewed. [Results] The exercise conditions differentially affected physiological and hematological responses and adaptation in dogs. Therefore, the development and comprehensive evaluation of scientific exercise programs for dogs are necessary. [Conclusion] The dog would be a valuable exercise science animal model, and studies aiming at the optimal health, well-being, and quality of life of dogs need to be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae Sung Lee
- Department of Physical Education, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Sports & Exercise Science Convergence Center, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Hee Kim
- Department of Physical Education, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Sports & Exercise Science Convergence Center, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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