Musical canine freestyle is a modern sport featuring a medley of tricks, obedience and dance. In order to be performed well, dog and owner must be able to demonstrate precision, talent and an ability to work together in harmony. Of course, a good choice of music and eye catching choreography can really make a difference, but it must be remembered that the dog is ultimately the star in this sport.
There are currently two forms of musical canine freestyle that need to be distinguished from one another: musical freestyle and freestyle heeling. Musical freestyle focuses on the dancer's creativity in mixing tricks, obedience and moves a dog is capable of performing, and then adding a choreographic background of music and costumes.
Freestyle heeling on the other hand, is performed with the dog in heel position, this means the dog is always right next to the dancer. Pivots, moving together diagonally, sideways, backwards, forwards, are examples of moves seen in this choreographic performance. What mainly differentiates freestyle heeling from musical freestyle is the fact that sending the dog to a distance is not part of this style.
How to Start Musical Canine Freestyle
In order to master this sport, your dog must know some obedience basics such as sit, lay down, stay, come. If your dog knows how to heel with attention to you this is a big plus. The moves can be taught at dog training facilities that offer help in training freestyle. However, some people can master moves by simply watching others performing freestyle.
Watching videos of other freestyle dancers may be a good way to get inspiration. You may find different moves to master and you can try to teach them at home. Starting in a quiet area free of distractions is a must. Because freestyle is all about having fun, only positive based training methods should be used and rewards for right doing is a must.
Clicker training is an excellent way to teach freestyle dancing to your dog. You can shape approximation of moves and use treats as lures to teach your dog how to move. Then as your dog begins to learn you can add a cue for the specific move and then wean away the use of the clicker.
Once your dog performs the moves with the use of verbal commands or hand signals, you can take him to areas where there may be some more distractions. From how well your dog responds in areas where there are more distractions you may learn how well ingrained the learned behaviors are.
If your dog does not do too well in these new areas, you may have to go a few steps backwards and make sure your dog has learned the moves well before upgrading to areas with distractions. Remember: a well trained dog must be able to perform basically anywhere. You must make sure your dog has this down to avoid problems on performance day in front of judges, other dogs and the public watching you.
Choose music that suits your dog's personality and see how your dog responds to the music. Is your dog wagging its tail, does he looks excited and happy to perform? These are signs your dog may like that music. Of course choose music that matches your dog's energy level. Hyperactive dog breeds may do well with fast paced music, but some calmer dog breeds may need something a bit calmer.
Choosing the choreography may be fun. Remember not to dress up your dog excessively. This interferes with movement and people may not like seeing too much on your dog. A simple collar that matches the color of your outfit is acceptable and so is a bandana or small scarf. Don't overdo it.
Canine musical freestyle can be a fun and rewarding sport for both dog and owner. The great part is that most dogs enjoy this sport and any breed can ultimately participate.
References:
Canine Freestyle Magic of the Match: Carolyn Scott and Rookie
Adrienne Farricelli - Adrienne Farricelli brings expertise in canine topics as a former American Animal Hospital Association employee and certified dog ...
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