MUSICAL FREESTYLE

DANCING WITH YOUR DOG

 

What is Musical Freestyle?

 

Musical freestyle is a relatively new sport that combines dog obedience and dance in a way that is totally unique and exciting. It blends dog obedience and dance, presenting a visually exciting display of handler and canine teamwork. The handler and dog perform dance-oriented footwork in time to the music, rather than displaying the traditional walking pace of obedience. Heeling is an important component of freestyle, but nonstandard movements are also expected to be displayed by the dog along with attention, enthusiasm, and a degree of difficulty over and above that which is normally seen in the obedience ring. A variety of handler upper body movements are also encouraged to lend interpretation of the music. Costuming for the handler also helps to enhance the interpretation of the music and to involve spectators in the spirit of the routine. Throughout the routine the handler may encourage the dog’s performance with verbal commands, but no training aids or food of any kind are permitted in the competition ring.

 

Musical freestyle is not “freestyle heeling.” In freestyle heeling, the focus is placed on the dog’s heel position and the dog’s execution of heeling patterns to music. Showcasing the dog’s talent is the primary objective, with the handler’s role remaining quite understated.

 

Musical freestyle is not heeling with music in the background. Freestyle encourages the dog to move out of heel position to perform a variety of movements and tricks not found in traditional obedience performance. The handler freely uses the body, arms, and legs to interpret the music. Footwork is a mixture of dance-related steps and traditional movements at different speeds. Because of the freedom for both the dog and human partners, musical freestyle routines incorporate creativity and diversity of movement. Emphasis is placed on teamwork between the handler and dog; neither partner is ‘showcased,” since both are judged equally.

 

How do I get started?

 

Music selection is the beginning step in creating a freestyle routine. Any type of music or medley of selections can be used to create a 1-6 minute routine. Instrumental or vocal music with a strong beat is the easiest to interpret. Selecting music to complement the dog and handler’s abilities is highly  recommended  and  choosing  music you will want to hear