Dog Dancing

Why dog dancing?

• Mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression are on the rise. I myself have had struggles with mental illness and had some very difficult times. Studies have proven that spending time with our pets can have a positive impact. I definitely wouldn’t have managed these past few years without my rescue dog Fred by my side. He has been the best kind of therapy. 

• Likewise, dogs need the right kind of mental stimulation and mental release. Research from Battersea dogs' home around lock-down have reported an increase in dog behaviours, such as hyperactivity. Dogs need to work their brain like we do, our lives are full of work, socialising, hobbies. If a dog is given nothing to do, they will become ‘self-employed’ and take to undesirable behaviours, possibly at the expense of our ears and the furniture! Dog dancing provides the right kind of mental stimulation, they are working their brains, without causing over excitement, like some activities such as ball chasing. (I’m not saying don’t get them to chase a ball, just be aware that this can lead to over arousal, due to over excitement, in some cases to the point where the dog loses the ability to think rationally, and so also leading to undesirable behaviours. (Think the child who has been at a birthday party, been allowed to eat as much sugar as they want and run and scream to their hearts content- probably won’t follow mum around the supermarket quietly.)

• It's all positive based, positive reinforcement, force-free training. Training needs to be enjoyable and non-stressful for dog and owner. This means no forcing the dog and using rewards, such as treats. The dog is also spending time with their favourite person, which is every dog’s favourite thing!

• Its rewarding to monitor progress. As you master each new trick and become closer to developing a routine, what could be more of an achievement? No matter how silly, I am always so proud and keen to show off Fred’s newest moves.

• Confidence. If you have any guests who are not dog friendly, what better way to get them to come around than to show some tricks. Getting them to bow or to walk backwards, for example.

• It is suitable for all dogs. All breeds, all ages, because this is something that can be adapted to suit each individual. For example, no jumping and slower moving tricks for elderly dogs, no jumping for long back breeds.

• A lot of the tricks taught in the program are not just great for dog dancing, they are also ‘life skill.’ If you have a nervous dog, the ‘Touch’ trick is great for building their confidence. It is giving them choice, getting them to touch your hand for rewards and helping that bond. If you have a reactive dog, this is a great ‘go to trick’ if you are out and you see a possible trigger coming your way. I can take Fred to one side and do some go to tricks if I see something that I know he will react to, you can’t predict these things, one time it was someone carrying a great big canoe.

Dog dancing is such a great bonding activity for a new puppy or rescue dog, Please visit the dog dancing page at www.delightfuldogsgrooming.co.uk and use the contact form for more information.