Dances with Dogs

CLASSES:  Pine Rivers D.T.C. runs K9 Freestyle and Heelwork to Music
classes.

Fees:  $5.00 per night

For bookings or further information contact: Gay gwestmor@bigpond.net.au
 ***  Photos on this page are of Pine Rivers members performing with their dogs.

What is Dances with Dogs?

Dances with Dogs (DWD) is a relatively new canine sport, which began in the UK in the early 1990s.  It was approved by the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) as an official sport in Australia from 1 January 2009.
 
DWD provides handlers and their dogs with an opportunity to demonstrate a skilful, choreographed routine, performed to music. There are two divisions of Dances with Dogs, Freestyle and Heelwork to Music.

Freestyle enables the handler to include innovative and creative moves and movement in time to music, giving the illusion of dance. 

Heelwork to Music (HTM), which is more closely aligned to obedience heelwork, the dog performs in one or more of the prescribed heelwork positions for at least 60% of the routine.

In DWD, handlers and their dogs develop a terrific rapport and, most of all, have fun doing it!  Spectators also thoroughly enjoy watching the sport and seeing the
enjoyment of the dogs and marvelling at their achievements.

For more information view the Dances with Dogs Club - Qld website:

http://www.danceswithdogsclubqld.org/index.html


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Debby with Jazz
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Kelli with Two
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Ros with Banjo
The Benefits of Dances with Dogs

IT’S FUN for both the handler and the dog.

Dogs and handlers develop great rapport, using positive training methods; use of compulsive methods is unlikely to produce the enjoyment and display of spirit by the dog which is inherent in  DWD.

The safety and welfare of the dog are of primary importance. There is no need to include moves which are not suitable or appropriate for the individual dog, whether due to his age, conformation or any previously sustained injury.

Dogs are active and their fitness improves; they develop greater flexibility and, by working on both sides of the handler, avoid stiffness that can be caused by working only on one side.