Getting started in Young Kennel Club Heelwork to Music?

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YKC member doing high five during heelwork to music

What is Heelwork to Music?

Heelwork to Music (or HTM) is where competitors create and perform routines to music with their dog, which are up to four minutes long. The two types of Heelwork to Music competition are:

1) Heelwork to music: where most of the routine must be heelwork and the rest can be as you wish
2) Freestyle: the whole routine is completely up to you!

Heelwork to Music requires lots of dog training skills. Competitors are judged over three criteria;

  • Content and flow
  • Accuracy and team performance
  • Musical interpretation

There are a maximum of 10 marks up for grabs in each section.

Why should you take part?

  • Meet new friends – there is a great social scene to be enjoyed
  • Wow your friends and family with your dog's new talent: 'Heelwork to Music' has been a great success at talent shows (like Britain's Got Talent) too!  
  • Explore your creative side by choregraphing exciting routines for you and your dog
  • Your dog will love the chance to learn new skills and moves
  • You do not have to be musically talented to be able to do Heelwork to Music – anyone can do it

Competing in Young Kennel Club competitons

All you will need to compete is a Royal Kennel Club Heelwork to Music Record book, in which you'll collect points to try to qualify for the Young Kennel Club Heelwork to Music Finals at Crufts. Send your book in by December 1st each year along with the application form below, and if you have enough points, you will be invited to compete at Crufts!

How do I take part?