Section 1: MDSA Vision of Canine Musical Freestyle
The Musical Dog Sport Association's definition of canine musical freestyle is a dog sport in which training, teamwork, music, and movement combine to create an artistic, choreographed performance highlighting the canine partner in a manner that celebrates the unique qualities of each individual dog. It is built upon the foundation of a positive working relationship of a dog and handler team.
The following are essential elements of an MDSA canine musical freestyle performance that should be present, regardless of class entry or event format:
A performance is always presented with the above MDSA canine musical freestyle definition in mind.
The dog and handler seem intangibly linked in the performance. The relationship and bond the team shares is clearly illustrated.
The music is selected to enhance and showcase the movement of the dog.
All movement is choreographed with the music and presented in an artistic and creative manner. The performance should not look like an obedience routine set to music; neither should it look like a routine of “tricks” set to music. The goal is a balanced presentation of heelwork, moves, and move combinations.
The movement of the handler complements the dog’s movement.
Canine musical freestyle is the creative expression of teamwork, training, willingness and joy shared by a dog and handler.