A group of people . . . who love to dance with their dogs!

The Rio Grande Canine Freestylers are a group of dog-loving people who enjoy the sport of canine freestyle, through training, practice, exhibition, and competition in this fun activity. We meet in weekly Saturday morning sessions with our dogs to learn freestyle skills and help each other to develop routines. Our group performs freestyle demonstrations at community events throughout the year, periodically sponsors seminars with nationally recognized freestyle instructors, and supports each other in preparing for competition.

We welcome new members—both experienced canine freestylers and those who are brand-new to the sport! If you're interested in finding out more about participating in canine freestyle in the Albuquerque, New Mexico area, we encourage you to contact us.

What is Canine Freestyle?	Getting Started in Canine Freestyle
Canine freestyle is "a choreographed musical program performed by handlers and their dogs. The object is to display dog and handler in a creative, innovative and original dance, using music and movements to showcase teamwork, artistry, costuming, athleticism, and style in interpreting the music." (Source: World Canine Freestyle Organization.) Read more about canine freestyle. . .	Looking for a fun training experience for you and your dog? Canine Freestyle may be for you! Freestyle complements other dog sports such as agility and obedience. You can enjoy the strengthened bond that comes from working together to develop freestyle skills. You're cordially invited to visit one of our Saturday morning club sessions on Albuquerque’s West Side There's no charge and no obligation. For more information about club sessions, email us or phone Rosalie James at 505-839-4238. You're also welcome to come to one of our community demonstrations. Group classes (beginner and intermediate) and private lessons are also available. For more information, see the Dancing Paws website or contact Rosalie by phone (505-839-4238) or email.
Mark your calendar for a fun and informative canine freestyle event! The Rio Grande Canine Freestylers are pleased to announce that we'll be hosting a 2-day canine freestyle weekend with Bev Blanchard on October 18 and 19, 2008, in Albuquerque. Bev will conduct an intermediate-level freestyle workshop on October 18. There will be a fun match and opportunities for private lessons with Bev on Sunday, October 19. The workshop is open to dog/handler teams who have completed a basic canine freestyle class (or equivalent). Bev was named WCFO Judge of the Year in 2005. She competed in the first-ever WCFO canine freestyle competition in 2000 and since then has earned a Musical Freestyle Championship and a Heelwork to Music Championship. She works as Puppy Development Manager at Leader Dogs for the Blind, in Michigan. The canine freestyle community is delighted to welcome Bev to New Mexico. Email us for more info.