I've never given any thought to a dog dancing. In fact, had no idea there was anything like that going on.

Then we got a puppy. Our particular puppy, Tex, was a rescue pup from Texas. He had been bottle fed and was (and is) a total Mama's boy who likes lots of attention.

It was in our obedience class that the idea of dancing first came up. Our teacher was quite taken with our boy and suggested he could excel at the sport. She sent me a link to show me what she was talking about. Watch Carolyn Scott and Rookie dance. I was intrigued.

I investigated and discovered that Canine Freestyle is an expanding sport. It began about 20 years ago, springing up spontaneously in countries around the world. First freestyle heeling and a few years later, musical freestyle. Several organizations have sprung up regulating what is ok is each style and holding competitions.

In Freestyle Heeling the emphasis is on the dog showing it's obedience skills staying at heel (at the handler's side) with the handler moving to music. The dog does not move away from the handler or work independently.

In Musical Freestyle the dog and handler combine heeling in a routine with tricks, bows, spins, etc. either together or at a distance. Any music and any tempo can be used.

As I said, I was intrigued. I started looking for info on dog dancing and discovered many links with dog and handler teams of all levels of excellence. This team is great. Britain's Talent--16 year old and her Border Collie

I got inspired. Searched some more and found a dancing dog training book and video. Tex and I started working. We aren't very good yet but are learning a few moves. He loves it (although tug-of-war is his all time favorite activity) and I have fun too.

If I am busy and Tex wants attention he goes through his repertoire: circle, twist, spin, up on hind feet, roll, bow, etc. to try to interest me in a session. I usually give in--at least for a short workout.

I don't know if we will ever get to the point of performing-but we do have fun. It gives him exercise and even more important, something to occupy his mind.

If you have a dog and want a fun way to interact with him, you may want to give it a try.

Claire has enjoyed dog training since she was a youth and had a wonderful Lab, bozo. Other interests include health and fitness. Claire believes that lifestyle choices and diet are the best way to achieve optimal health and longevity for people as well as dogs. She has helped individuals increase their energy, reach their goal size, enjoy wellness and a clear, "non-fuzzy" mind.

Claire has been writing articles online for over 2 years. Not only does she focus on diet, fittness and weight loss, but she also coaches people to earn money on the internet. Here is a recent site, countertop convection ovens which discusses the merits of convection cooking and various models including the Delonghi Convection Oven.