Heelwork to Music

1. A HTM routine should be done with the dog and the handler in close proximity to each other throughout the routine.  On all moves, the dog and handler team should move as one entity throughout the routine, displaying heelwork and creativity in the many positions and behaviors possible in HTM.

2. Heelwork is defined as any position between the handler and the dog within 360 degrees radius and includes, but is not limited to: right heel; left heel; face-to-face; face-to-back; back-to-back; back-to-face; and all angled positions between handler and dog within 360 degrees.

3. HTM routines may include:

• Sustained close-in heelwork sequences, with the dog and handler moving together in sustained parallel position to one another (straight, curved or circular patterns);

• Moving or stationary close-in heelwork behaviors done next to the other or together (for example, spins, turns, pivots, paws or hands on moves etc.);

• Close-in connecting moves (either stationary or in motion) that connect heelwork sequences together;

• Other creative and/or original close-in moves.

4. During heelwork sequences, behaviors, and/or moves the dog and the handler should maintain the same close proximity to each other throughout each type of sequence, behavior, or move.  During a move such as a spin, the closest part of the dog’s body in relation to the handler (head, shoulder, side, rear) should maintain the same close proximity.

5. The general heelwork position and proximity in a HTM routine will be determined during the first 15 seconds of the routine.

6. Judges will penalize each instance of the loss of the heelwork proximity in HTM routines with .1 to 1.0 point deductions from the Technical Merit (TM)– Precise Execution score, depending on its severity.

7. No distance work should be included in HTM routines.

8. The dog or the handler should not weave through or be in-between the other’s legs or arms in HTM routines.  (Note: The dog’s tail is excluded from this).

9. No intentional attempt on the part of the dog or the handler to jump, either horizontal or vertical, should be included in HTM routines.

10. Judges will penalize each instance of distance, weaving / in-between legs or arms, or jumping in HTM routines with .3 to 1.0 point deductions from the Technical Merit (TM) – Content score, depending on its severity.

*See further guidelines for additional information, deductions, and disqualifications.