The Crufts dog show, renowned for showcasing the remarkable talents of dogs from around the world, had an unforgettable moment during its 2017 edition when a canine competitor astounded the audience with a performance like no other. Among the many categories, Heelwork to Music, which combines dog obedience and choreography, allowed one amazing dog to display an extraordinary set of skills, including performing CPR, squats, and press-ups—tasks you would normally expect from a human, not a canine.
Heelwork to Music: A Unique Canine Sport
For those unfamiliar with Heelwork to Music, it’s a competition that blends precision training with entertainment. Handlers work with their dogs to choreograph routines set to music, where both the handler and the dog move in sync. The discipline emphasizes creativity, control, and the bond between handler and dog, leading to stunning and often emotional performances.
The Show-Stealing Routine
At Crufts 2017, the standout routine came from one competitor whose dog performed a series of jaw-dropping tricks that left the audience in awe. The dog’s performance was meticulously timed to the music, featuring high-energy moves that demonstrated its physical prowess and discipline.
- CPR Demonstration: One of the most impressive elements of the routine was when the dog mimicked performing CPR. The dog placed its paws on a dummy, pushing down repeatedly as though it were administering chest compressions. This part of the act was not only clever but also a nod to the growing awareness of dogs trained for medical assistance roles.
- Squats and Press-ups: In addition to the CPR stunt, the dog’s fitness was on full display. With seamless transitions, the dog demonstrated squats, where it lowered its body and stood up again in time with the handler. Press-ups (or push-ups) followed, showing off the dog’s incredible strength and agility, as it executed perfect movements.
- Crowd Reactions and Judge Approval: The audience erupted in applause during these incredible feats, clearly recognizing the dedication and training that had gone into the performance. The judges, too, were impressed, with many commenting on the creativity and the trust between the dog and its handler.
Beyond Tricks: The Bond Between Dog and Handler
What made the performance even more special was the visible bond between the dog and its handler. Heelwork to Music routines require hours of patient training, communication, and trust. The dog not only performed on cue but also stayed focused in a bustling, competitive environment, a testament to its temperament and the dedication of its handler.
The Impact of Performances Like This
Beyond entertainment, such routines help raise awareness of the intelligence and versatility of dogs. Dogs are increasingly being trained in roles that assist humans, including medical alert dogs, therapy animals, and even those trained to perform basic medical procedures like CPR. While the routine at Crufts was largely for entertainment, it served as a fun and creative way to showcase the potential that many working dogs have today.
A Performance for the Ages
Crufts 2017 was packed with talented canines, but the Heelwork to Music routine with CPR, squats, and press-ups undoubtedly stood out as one of the most memorable. It reminded audiences of the remarkable capabilities of dogs when given proper training, love, and a little creativity. This performance has since become a beloved highlight in the world of dog shows, capturing hearts and inspiring dog owners everywhere to see the potential in their own pets.
The amazing display of canine fitness, intelligence, and the close bond between dog and handler continues to be celebrated as one of Crufts’ most iconic moments.
