Dog dancing, also known as “canine freestyle” or “heelwork to music,” is an exceptional canine sport that combines obedience, choreography, and music. In this activity, dogs and their handlers perform synchronized routines set to music, showcasing their bond and the dog’s level of training.
If you enjoy teaching your dog tricks, this discipline will definitely appeal to you. It may seem quite simple: teams consisting of a dog and its handler perform various movements composed of tricks and skills that must be synchronized with music. These movements can tell a specific story, be lyrical in nature, or even have fun, entertaining themes. Dogs and their handlers often wear costumes for performances and may also use props.
There are two different types of dog dancing in the United States:
1. Musical Freestyle
This discipline allows complete freedom. Various movements can be performed, anything that is fun. For example, jumping, weaving through the handler’s legs, rolling on the floor, and other tricks are all permitted.
2. Heelwork to Music
This discipline has stricter rules. In practice, this means that the dog must stay within two feet of the handler at all times, whether in front, on the sides, or behind. Uncontrolled jumping, weaving through legs, and other freestyle moves are not allowed. Everything must be disciplined and synchronized, making it look like a true partnered dance.
Whether you choose Musical Freestyle, Heelwork to Music, or both, dog dancing can be a fantastic sport for beginners, although it does require some basic knowledge to start.
How to Get Started with Dog Dancing
Currently, dog dancing is more popular in Europe than in the United States, but there are still several ways to get involved in this sport. The best way to start is by looking for a local club. If there are no local clubs nearby, you can even start your own.
There is also an official organization, the World Canine Freestyle Organization (WCFO), which is one of the few—if not the only—active organizations for dog dancing in the U.S. Their website can be helpful in finding clubs near you.
If you are just getting started, there are other options to explore your and your dog’s talents. Some instructors offer virtual training, and there is also a Dog Dancing community on Facebook: Dog Dance USA. This small central hub is run by a group of enthusiasts determined to promote dog dancing in the U.S.
If you want to explore dog dancing with your dog, consider these steps:
- Basic Obedience Training:Make sure your dog knows basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “heel.”
- Introduce Music:Play different types of music and observe your dog’s reaction to find melodies that energize or calm them.
- Teach New Tricks:Start with simple moves like spins, weaving, and bowing, then gradually move on to more complex sequences.
- Create a Choreography:Combine learned moves into a routine that fits the chosen music while ensuring it matches your dog’s abilities and comfort level.
- Practice Regularly:Consistent practice is key to success. Keep training sessions fun and positive, using rewards to motivate and reinforce learning.
Dog dancing is an exciting way to strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend while keeping them mentally and physically active. So, put on some music and start dancing with your dog today!
How to Find and Participate in Dog Dancing Events?
If you have taught your dog certain skills, attended live classes, or learned online, the next logical step in dog dancing is competition. While there are several organizations in Europe that offer competitions and recognition in this sport, in the United States, the main organization for earning titles in Heelwork to Music and Musical Freestyle is WCFO.
Local dog dancing clubs, such as Boogie Paws, led by Jan Meyer, also offer virtual competitions. The advantage of these competitions is that you can participate regardless of where you live. WCFO also organizes monthly virtual video events, where competitors can submit their recordings for evaluation and progress toward earning titles.
Since most dog dancing competitions in the U.S. are currently virtual, this is an excellent sport for dogs that are reactive or anxious in public settings. With virtual competitions, every dog can try this sport at its own pace and in a comfortable environment where it feels safe.
How to Earn Titles in Dog Dancing and Freestyle Heelwork
Through the WCFO organization, you can earn titles in the following levels:
- Beginner
- Novice
- Intermediate
- Advanced
- Perfect Dance Partner (PDP)
These levels apply to both Heelwork to Music and Musical Freestyle.
To earn a title, teams must perform a routine within a time limit (which varies by level). Competitors are judged on artistic and technical elements, similar to gymnastics or figure skating.
- Beginner Levelrequires two qualifying scores of 3 or higher to earn the title.
- Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced Levelsrequire three qualifying performances with scores of 3 or higher.
- Perfect Dance Partner (PDP) Levelrequires five qualifying performances with a score of 9.5 or higher.
At the Beginner Level in Musical Freestyle, judges primarily look for the connection between the handler and the dog. The dog can perform simple moves such as spins, figure eights, and basic heelwork.
At the Novice Level, judges expect less visible hand signals and a smoother performance.
At the Intermediate Level, the dog must perform movements behind the handler.
At the Advanced Level, judges want to see distance work, where the dog executes complex moves while staying away from the handler.
At the PDP Level, full synchronization without visible hand signals is expected, with the dog and handler moving as one unit.
Special Competition Categories
WCFO also offers special categories, such as:
- Sassy Seniors– for older dogs (with an age restriction).
- Handi Dandi– for dogs or handlers with disabilities.
These different classes make dog dancing inclusive and adaptable to competitors of all abilities.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has helped you understand this discipline and will make it easier for you to decide whether to try this sport with your dog.
Besides being a fun and exciting activity, dog dancing also offers numerous benefits, including:
- Strengthening the Bond:Creating and practicing routines together deepens the relationship between the dog and handler.
- Mental and Physical Stimulation:Learning new movements and routines provides mental challenges for dogs while keeping them physically fit.
- Creative Expression:Handlers can showcase their creativity by designing unique routines that highlight their dog’s skills and personality.
Dog dancing is an enjoyable and rewarding way to connect with your dog while keeping them engaged and active. Why not give it a try?
For a visual demonstration and further inspiration, you might find this video helpful: