"Musical Freestyle is a choreographed musical program performed by handlers and their dogs. The object of musical freestyle is to display the dog and handler in a creative, innovative and original dance, using music and intricate movements to showcase teamwork, artistry, costuming, athleticism and style in interpreting the theme of the music. Heelwork-to-Music incorporates traditional dog obedience and the art of dressage with the inclusion of musical interpretation, dance elements, and costuming with an emphasis on non-standard obedience movements. Both Musical Freestyle and Heelwork-To-Music routines should create a visually exciting display which is enjoyable to watch and which is equally enjoyable to dogs and handlers executing the programs. Canine freestyle is a showcase that truly demonstrates the joys and fun of bonding with your pet." Patie Ventre, WCFO Founder | What will you and your dog learn in this class? Attention--Attention--Attention!!! All sorts of attention exercises that are the foundation of Freestyle! 1) Hand touch dog's nose to hand (either hand, all possible positions--this is used to help teach many of the other skills) 2) left heeling, right heeling, pivot forward and back in each position 3) spins--clockwise, counterclockwise, in front of you, to your left and your right, stationary and moving 4) backwards--from front, from left heel and right heel positions 5) weaves through the legs--there are many variations 6) side passes--front position, at left and right heel, away from the dog and towards the dog 7) bow, beg, roll over, jump and touch, jump over arm or leg or stick 8)information about music--tempo, length, types, moods, match with dog 9) smooth transitions from one move to another--there will be practice time where teams put various moves together, including some to music. Then learn how to extinguish the treats or "reinforcers" so teams can get through a performance without them! 10) information about costumes and how to compete.
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