Competitions
Dances with Dogs competitions are conducted under the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) rules for the conduct of Dances with Dogs competitions.
The focus in a Dances with Dogs routine is on the performance of the dog and handler team. The handler's role is to showcase the performance of the dog, not to overshadow the performance of the dog. The duration of a routine is dependent upon the level at which the dog/handler team is performing. Routines are to be a minimum of one (1) minute and a maximum of four (4) minutes. The routines become longer as the team moves through the higher classes.
Dances with Dogs has two Divisions, Heelwork to Music and Freestyle.
We also offer a Rookie class, this is a not a competitive class, it is where (for a small fee) new handlers and dogs can become familiar with the ring in a relaxed manner where food and toy rewards can be given. Current competitors may also enter this class when preparing new routines. The rookie class is run at the end of the competition (time and conditions permitting).
Heelwork to Music (HTM) requires at least 70% of the routine to be performed with the dog in one of eight possible heelwork positions, each of which requires the dog’s head to be close to the handler’s leg and the dog to move in the same direction and at the same speed as the handler. Movement is in all four directions ie. right, left, forward, backward and also pivots in both directions.
The focus in a Dances with Dogs routine is on the performance of the dog and handler team. The handler's role is to showcase the performance of the dog, not to overshadow the performance of the dog. The duration of a routine is dependent upon the level at which the dog/handler team is performing. Routines are to be a minimum of one (1) minute and a maximum of four (4) minutes. The routines become longer as the team moves through the higher classes.
Dances with Dogs has two Divisions, Heelwork to Music and Freestyle.
We also offer a Rookie class, this is a not a competitive class, it is where (for a small fee) new handlers and dogs can become familiar with the ring in a relaxed manner where food and toy rewards can be given. Current competitors may also enter this class when preparing new routines. The rookie class is run at the end of the competition (time and conditions permitting).
Heelwork to Music (HTM) requires at least 70% of the routine to be performed with the dog in one of eight possible heelwork positions, each of which requires the dog’s head to be close to the handler’s leg and the dog to move in the same direction and at the same speed as the handler. Movement is in all four directions ie. right, left, forward, backward and also pivots in both directions.
Karen & Raastus in across the front position
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Gay and Talli work in a reverse heelwork position.
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Cathy & Rafael in Left heel
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Freestyle routines provide the opportunity for a wide range of moves, both close to and at a distance from the handler, and hence have the potential for execution of a great degree of variety of moves. Both HTM and Freestyle routines are meant to be entertaining and demonstrate teamwork between the dog and handler.
Sharon & Holly
Angie and Inka
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Lisa & Cass
Deb & Morphy
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Coral and Grande
Teddy
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