Can Dogs Dance?

We’ve already had a chance to talk about dogs’ favorite type of music, what they feel when they listen to it or what the music is capable of conveying to them. But is it possible that the emotions felt are strong enough to make their body move? Do animals have a sense of rhythm to dance?

The effect of music on dogs

Music can have a calming effect on your dog, it can help him miss you less when he’s alone in the house, and even put him to sleep. It can also calm anxiety and lift your mood. However, it is true that rarely a dog will dance simply by listening to a few notes.

The ability to synchronize rhythms seems to be more of an evolutionary mechanism used differently depending on the species and circumstances

 Charles Darwin

The favorite music of dogs is classical music, which has the ability to awaken the five senses and stimulate emotions, even in humans. Listening to classical music is an excellent technique to use before embarking on an activity that can stress the dog, such as going to the vet or leaving him alone at home.

So if music has an effect on our animals, will it be possible that they have a sense of rhythm that makes them dance?

Can dogs dance?

The answer is clear and simple: yes. The sense of rhythm in animals can be awakened through training, as evidenced by performances with horses. There are many cases of dogs that help their masters artists for their shows, dancing. Here are some of them:

• Didi. It is a 4-year-old white dog, of unspecified breed, who accompanies her master every week to dance merengue to the rhythm of his barking.
• Noa. A beautiful specimen of female Golden Retriever, owned by the Peruvian police, every year during the holidays becomes the protagonist of a show in which she dances the Marinera, a typical dance of her country.

In addition to those mentioned, there are many other dogs and dogs able to dance, which help their owners in their musical performances. Of course, to get to these levels, they need specific training.

How to train a dog to dance

• Choose “edible gifts” that your dog likes. Decide which treats to use to cheer your dog on, always making sure they are easy to chew and can be swallowed quickly. Otherwise, the dog is likely to lie down trying to eat them regardless of the music or you.
• Choose a secluded place. You will need to choose a quiet place to teach the dog the right dance steps. There should be ample space, but not enough to make it run away, and with as few distractions as possible. Opt for a flat and closed place, without flower pots or chairs.
• Place a treat on the palm of your hand, making a fist so your dog can smell it, but not grab it. Start the music and start moving your hand following the movements you want the animal to learn, depending on the rhythm. Alternately lift one paw and then the other, until you can make him stand on his hind legs, making him dance.

• Always stay close to him, making sure that he does not lose his balance and that he does not fall, hurting himself. Continue to urge him to move on his hind legs, but without separating from him. If you want to turn it around, move your hand in circles over its head, and you will see that the dog will turn until you stop. Don’t do this for too long, it could make him nauseous.
• Have the animal connect the gesture with a command. Choose a word like “dance” or “dance” so that the dog activates without you having to hold the candy in your hand. If you use it for the first time while it is on its hind legs, and continue to use it during each workout with the same music, the dog will reconnect everything very quickly.

Of course, we cannot promise or give you the certainty that, following these instructions, your dog will dance immediately, from the first session; but if you are persevering, patient and loving, after several workouts you will certainly be able to make your little friend dance.