Two-day 'doggie dancing' contest comes to Teesdale, Teesdale Mercury

Two-day 'doggie dancing' contest comes to Teesdale

May 9, 2008

UP to 160 dogs and their owners will be going walkies to Teesdale Leisure Centre, in Barnard Castle, later this month for a skills competition set to music.

The event, on May 24 and 25 - often known as doggie dancing - sees dogs working off the lead, moving in conjunction with their handler to demonstrate their technical ability in eight heelwork positions. 

In the freestyle section there is room for more artistic interpretation with lots of different moves and fancy footwork from both the dog and their handler in a routine lasting up to four minutes.  

Following a successful one-day event last year, the organisers are planning a two-day competition with 16 classes, and spectators are welcome throughout.

Sue Leyland, from organisers Northern Mutts N Music, said: "It's not always easy to find a suitable venue, but the leisure centre at Barnard Castle ticks all the boxes.  

"There's a nice big hall to house a ring and enough room for people to watch, somewhere for the competitors to get changed, outside space to exercise the dogs, but most importantly - a very helpful staff team. They were brilliant and happy to host us again this year."

Several of the classes will act as qualifiers for next year's Crufts competition.  

The first is for young Kennel Club handlers, whilst top competitors from throughout the country will try to secure a place via the advanced freestyle and heelwork categories.

Teesdale District Council's leisure and culture manager, Paul Branch, said: "It's going to be an interesting and entertaining weekend. We're happy to welcome the competition back to Barnard Castle and look forward to seeing more of this highly skilled discipline."

Spectators are welcome from 9.30am, but only dogs taking part in the 

competition will be admitted to the leisure centre during the weekend.

The Open Heelwork to Music Competition is organised by Northern Mutts N Music with Louth and District Dog Club and run according to Kennel Club regulations.