This is something I am considering doing with my GSD we have done basic obedience for a little over a year, and I used to do Dressage to music, don't ride now, both my horses are retired but the idea of heelwork to music really appeals.  I have spoken to a local trainer and am going to their training session when they re-start in January, and understand that the dogs have to work to a very high standard of heelwork, especially with the Team I am visiting.  Does anyone have any experience, tips, ideas or just general info on this as I am a total beginner, all I have seen is Mary Rae at Crufts!!  But I would welcome any input, as I feel quite brave now, but will get more nervous nearer the time, and want to be a little prepared. :D :D.

Chris

Hi,

Not personally (obedience and agility bod me), but I would give one word of warning, PLEASE be careful with any work involving the dog walking on back legs, especially with a GSD.

Heelwork to music looks fab and is fairly simple to do, as there are only a few basic commands which are repeated over and over again.  My friend is involved with her Flatcoat and she loves it.

manda
x

Thanks Manda - thats a very good point.  Will probably think a bit more about this.

Chris X

I've just started in Manchester and I'm really enjoying it.  My boy is too young at the moment to do some of the things as he's only 9 months but it's great.

I think it is something I would really enjoy as well, but must admit until Manda mentioned it, I thought I had thought of all the movements, but had not even considered the jumping on the hind legs, I have tried to research it a bit more, and this is, I think quite a popular part, and I have reservations about putting that amount of pressure onto my dogs hips, he is a GSD, if I had thought about doing it with my collie, she being a lot lighter, that would have been a better idea, but she is 5 now, and is above that kind of thing :D her opinion not mine!  Thanks for your reply.

Chris x

Try to remember there are so many moves that it would be impossible to fit them all into a routine. It's not necessary to train every move and some breeds physically can't do some of the moves such as walking on hind legs or crawling.

Don't think that you have to copy everyone else and put in common moves if it doesn't suit your dog. You'll still have too many moves to choose from to fit into your routine! :-)