I sort of like it,but do not like when they make the dogs go backwards for what seems like fairly long times,they kind of look uncomfortable,but the rest I do enjoy
Wendy

I agree with Wys - can see why some people are against it, but on the whole I believe it highlights how well trained a dog can be, the dogs do seem to have a ball doing it too.

I know Mary Rae is a highly respected trainer and does so to the highest standards, that I do admire. I am sure she would not endanger any of her dogs.

I would like to think she inspires owners to try and achieve more with their dogs and go to training classes with them

Well wrong or not I LOVE IT and seeing those three dogs with her last night on that freak Julian Clary,s show on behalf of Dogs Trust got me all emotional the dogs smile so they must love doing it. Hope it doesnt affect the bones and muscles though by using ones not meant for the purpose. Anyone see the programme last night, just feel sorry for the dogs that the celebs dont want to keep as they will be getting attached to them, I loved them all,

That is a bit uncalled for!!!

Itsnt it just!

I have nothing really against HTM as such. I wouldn't want to do it with my dogs personally, but can appreciate the dedication, time, effort and patience that goes into training for this kind of thing.

As long as the dog enjoys it and it isn't detrimental to health, then fine - just not for me

this is the exact reason i hate 'heel' work to music.
in the uk it is against the law to have animals preforming in the circus,but this is exactly wot these dogs are doing.
im also against wot its called,to my knowledge 'heel' means a dog walking politely nxt to u.
it should be renamed 'the cicus dogs',i think thats more apropriate

Which original thread was this topic split from?

I used not to like HTM when I first saw it, but then I learnt to 'look past' the entertainment aspect to see a dog being mentally stimulated and this has to be a good thing

Someone posted a video of a Dacs yesterday which was quite obviously really enjoying HTM, that little dog was a delight to watch

But surely doing some activity/training with your dog is better than doing nothing?

As I have said, I am not really a fan of heelwork to music, however if it gets people actively engaging in doing some kind of activity and training then it must be a good thing.

The same comments could be made about flyball and agility - as these are not really "natural" activities for dogs to take part in either - but you try telling the dogs that they aren't having fun