A)The Current Rule Number and Rule Detail

2018 DWD MTG – ATTACHMENT 6e

a)The current rule number and rule detail.

1.0INTRODUCTION

1.1Dances with Dogs competitions provide handlers and their dogs with an opportunity to demonstrate a skilful, choreographed routine, performed to music.

1.2 Dances with Dogs encompasses two separate divisions: (a) Freestyle and (b) Heelwork to Music.

b)The proposed amendment

1.0INTRODUCTION

1.1Dances with Dogs competitions provide handlers and their dogs with an opportunity to demonstrate a skilful, choreographed routine, performed to music.

1.2 Dances with Dogs encompasses two separate divisions: (a) Canine Freestyle and (b) Heelwork to Music.

c)A full rationale for the proposed amendment

The term Canine Freestyle is used internationally and easily recognised. Eg World Canine Freestyle Organization (US); Canine Freestyle Federation (US);Canine Freestyle GB (UK);Paws 2 Dance Canine Freestyle Organization(Canada). Renaming one division of Dances with Dogs as ‘Canine Freestyle’ acknowledges these international routes, without the need to rename the whole sport.
‘Freestyle’ is vague. ‘Canine Freestyle’ is more specific.

d)List of any rules which could be affected as a result of a consequential change/s from a proposed new rule or an amended rule

On almost all occasions where ‘Freestyle’ is mentioned in the rules, it will need to be changed to ‘Canine Freestyle’.

a)The current rule number and rule detail.

2.0DEFINITIONS

Where referred to in these Rules, the following words will have the meanings assigned to them below:

“Affiliate”: a member body of a Canine Control conducting a Dances with Dogs competition.

"ANKC Ltd member body" or "member body": the ANKC Ltd member body in each State or Territory of Australia.

“Freestyle”: a division of Dances with Dogs, in which the dog works off lead and in which the routine may, subject to the provisions of these Rules, encompass a variety of moves, including heelwork and non-heelwork moves to present an interpretation of their music; there is no prescription as to the nature of moves or the level of heelwork required in Freestyle routines.

b)The proposed amendment

2.0 DEFINITIONS

Where referred to in these Rules, the following words will have the meanings assigned to them below:

“Affiliate”: a member body of a Canine Control conducting a Dances with Dogs competition.

"ANKC Ltd member body" or "member body": the ANKC Ltd member body in each State or Territory of Australia.

“Freestyle”: a division of Dances with Dogs, in which the dog works off lead and in which the routine may should, subject to the provisions of these Rules, encompass a variety of moves, including heelwork and non-heelwork moves to present an interpretation of their music; there is no prescription as to the nature of moves or the level of heelwork required in Freestyle routines. At any class level, a minimum of 70% of a freestyle routine must consist of freestyle moves, the percentage of freestyle moves in a routine is based on the time spent performing the Freestyle moves. The remainder of the routine may consist of heelwork.

c)A full rationale for the proposed amendment

For consistency sake, the freestyle definition would match that of heelwork (but with inverse requirements). As it is specified that 70% of heelwork is required in a Heelwork to Music routine, it is logical to also specify the requirements for Freestyle.
This proposed amendment is designed to clarify what is meant by Freestyle. The need for this further clarification has come about because many otherwise technically excellent routines have been marked down as they could be mistaken for Heelwork to Music, and there appears to be a lack of understanding of the definition of Freestyle. A Freestyle routine that is largely Heelwork does not have the same flair or spectator appeal that is expected of Freestyle. (Rule 1.5)
Competitors, especially those new to Dances with Dogs, are often unsure of the difference between the two categories, and explaining the percentage of HTM in a FS routine would contribute to their understanding.

d)List of any rules which could be affected as a result of a consequential change/s from a proposed new rule or an amended rule

The entry form in appendix B would need to change.

a)The current rule number and rule detail.

5.11No food, toy or motivator shall be used within 6 metres of the competition ring.

b)The proposed amendment

5.11No food, toy or motivator shall be used within 65 metres of the competition ring.

c)A full rationale for the proposed amendment

In obedience and rally obedience, the distance specified is 5 metres, so this change would make DWD consistent with other sports.
As many DWD competitions are held at indoor venues, this rule change allows more flexibility when organizing floor plans for venues.

d)List of any rules which could be affected as a result of a consequential change/s from a proposed new rule or an amended rule

a)The current rule number and rule detail.

6.3.3Appropriate footwear is required to be worn by all handlers in the ring.

With footnote stating: Excludes thongs, scuffs and bare feet.

b)The proposed amendment

6.3.3Appropriate footwear is required to be worn by all handlers in the ring. The onus is on the handler to choose suitable footwear (if any) in the ring.

c)A full rationale for the proposed amendment

Performers in this sport are of varied physical ability and as such, each individual should be responsible for selecting appropriate clothing attire including footwear that does not impede their physical performance or create a hazard to them during their performance and while entering/leaving the ring. Singling our footwear as the only risk is not logical, since other garments could also be a hazard if inappropriately worn eg tripping over long scarves or flowing dresses.
The current rule limits creativity. Some competitors are ‘forced’ to wear shoes when their routine’s costume would be more appealing without footwear.
Many DWD events are held indoors, so the safety aspects of footwear are not always relevant.

d)List of any rules which could be affected as a result of a consequential change/s from a proposed new rule or an amended rule

a)The current rule number and rule detail.

9.2.1 Dogs may only wear a decorative/co-ordinated neck collar, scarf and/or a buckle collar, or no collar.

9.2.2Dogs must not wear:

(a)any kind of prong, choke, or slip collars (made of chain or any other material); or

(b)anything other than mentioned in 9.2.1.

9.2.3A dog may not be artificially coloured.

b)The proposed amendment

9.2.1 Dogs may only wear a decorative/co-ordinated neck collar, scarf and/or a buckle collar, or no collar while performing their routine.

9.2.2Dogs may, when entering and exiting the ring, wear a collar or harness with lead attached, or slip lead.

9.2.3A dog may not be artificially coloured.

c)A full rationale for the proposed amendment

9.2.1
Currently, the rule implies that a dog is restricted in what it can wear in the whole precinct of the competition, while really this rule attempts to control the attire of the dog while it is performing.
Competitors have at times been corrected for walking their dog into the performance ring wearing a harness, when this should not be a problem for the competition or their routine, assuming the dog wears appropriate attire when performing.
9.2.2
There is no need to protect dogs from these devices in this rule, as 10.1 disallows handlers from issuing punitive corrections.
The current rule prevents handlers from using slip leads to enter and exit the ring, which is a useful device for speed and ease, especially for competitors with a number of dogs competing.
When dogs are wearing ‘fancy collars’ for their performance, they are not often suitable for connecting a lead to, and so handlers waste time putting a different lead/collar on and off as they enter the ring.

d)List of any rules which could be affected as a result of a consequential change/s from a proposed new rule or an amended rule

a)The current rule number and rule detail.

10.6For the duration of the competition, all dogs must be on a lead (or otherwise restrained [e.g. in a crate]) except when competing or practising prior to the competition. Dogs will enter and leave the competition ring on lead under the control of the handler. At any point after entering the ring, the competitor may remove the lead and hand it to the ring steward who will return it to the handler on completion of the routine.

b)The proposed amendment

10.6For the duration of the competition, all dogs must be on a lead (or otherwise restrained [e.g. in a crate]) except when competing or practising prior to the competition. Dogs will enter and leave the competition ring on lead under the control of the handler. At any point after entering the ring, the competitormay will remove the lead and hand it to the ring steward who will return it to the handler on completion of the routine.A dog who exits the competition ring off lead at any time may be penalised, up to disqualification, in accordance with Rule 7 and Rule 11.4.1.b.

c)A full rationale for the proposed amendment

Part a: As it currently stands, it is within the rules for a competitor to complete their whole routine while on lead. This is not in competing with the nature of an appealing spectator sport, nor is it the manner in which DWD competitions have been run in the country.
Part b: By adding the last line it is hoped to clarify confusion that has arisen regarding the penalty in place for dogs that leave the ring before and after performance of their routine but whilst they are in the ring area. Dogs that leave the ring off lead pose a safety hazard and can be very disruptive to competitors about to enter the ring. Though the current rule is clear that dogs must be on lead, it is not clear what the appropriate penalty is. The only penalty explanation currently in force is 11.4.1 (b) “the dog and/or handler leaving the ring at any time during their routine;” This does not cover the time spent in the ring before and after their performance.

d)List of any rules which could be affected as a result of a consequential change/s from a proposed new rule or an amended rule

Somewhat: 11.4.1 (b) – see next section.

a)The current rule number and rule detail.

11.4.Disqualification

11.4.1The following shall result in disqualification of the dog and handler and their immediate removal from the ring:

(a)a dog fouling/eliminating at any point between entering and exiting the ring;

(b)the dog and/or handler leaving the ring at any time during their routine; if a dog or handler accidentally steps outside the ring during a routine they will not be penalised;

…

b)The proposed amendment

11.4.Disqualification

11.4.1The following shall result in disqualification of the dog and handler and their immediate removal from the ring:

(a)a dog fouling/eliminating at any point between entering and exiting the ring;

(b)the dog and/or handler leaving the ring at any time during their routine while off lead; however if a dog or handler accidentally steps outside the ring during a routine they willmay not be penalised;

…

c)A full rationale for the proposed amendment

Broaden the criteria for disqualification beyond just the dog leaving the ring during the routine, but also if the dog bolts out of the ring before or after the routine has started.
Substituting in the word ‘may’ instead of ‘will’ allow judges to determine a penalty as fitting to the competitor and the level they are competing at.

d)List of any rules which could be affected as a result of a consequential change/s from a proposed new rule or an amended rule

a)The current rule number and rule detail.

11.2Judges’ marking criteria

Each judge will mark all three sections of the Judging criteria as follows:

(a)Routine Content – 20 points

(i)The routine is varied with no excessive repetition of moves, befitting the class entered.

(ii)Degree of difficulty in respect of the type of moves.

(iii)Teamwork displays harmony, a strong relationship and enjoyment between dog and handler.

(b)Technical Merit – 20 points

(i)Accuracy of the moves and the dog’s speed in responding; a smooth flow from one move to the next by both handler and dog.

(ii)Quality of moves and the extent of mistakes and/or refusals.

(iii)Accuracy of heelwork (Heelwork to Music division only).

(iv)The dog works in a natural and willing manner.

(c)Musical Interpretation – 20 points

(i)Interpretation of the music, reflecting rhythm and phrasing of the music in changes and moves.

(ii)Movements are complementary to the routine’s concept.

(iii)Choreography is apparent and flowing. The routine includes balance, structure, and design and makes best use of available space.

(iv)Costume enhances interpretation of the routine.

b)The proposed amendment

11.2Judges’ marking criteria

Each judge will mark all three sections of the Judging criteria as follows:

(a)Routine Content – 20 points

(i)The routine is varied with no excessive repetition of moves, befitting the class entered.

(ii)Degree of difficulty in respect of the type of moves.

(iii)Teamwork displays harmony, a strong relationship and enjoyment between dog and handler.

(b)Technical Merit – 20 points

(i)Accuracy of the moves and the dog’s speed in responding; a smooth flow from one move to the next by both handler and dog.

(ii)Quality of moves and the extent of mistakes and/or refusals.

(iii)Accuracy of heelwork (Heelwork to Music division only).

(iv)The dog works in a natural and willing manner.

(c)Musical Interpretation – 20 points

(i)Interpretation of the music, reflecting rhythm and phrasing of the music in changes and moves.

(ii)Movements are complementary to the routine’s concept, either as a dance ensemble or storytelling.

(iii)Choreography is apparent and flowing. The routine includes balance, structure, and design and makes best use of available space.

(iv)Costume enhances interpretation of the routine.

c)A full rationale for the proposed amendment

In the current global trend where storytelling seems to be favoured over dance ensemble (with no obvious story to tell) in routines in international competitions like Crufts and the Open European Championship), a clarification that dance ensemble and storytelling are equally acceptable in the Australian rulebook is needed as a clear statement that no bias is applied toward any of the two choreography styles.

d)List of any rules which could be affected as a result of a consequential change/s from a proposed new rule or an amended rule

Appendix A – inclusion in marks sheet.

a)The current rule number and rule detail

11.5.3In the event of a tied score, a decision will be on the following criteria:

(a)Highest total score for Technical Merit; if scores remain tied, use criterion (b).

(b)Highest score for Routine Content; if scores remain tied, use criterion (c).

(d)Determined at the discretion of the Judging Panel.

b)The proposed amendment

11.5.3In the event of a tied scorefor Heelwork to Music, a decision will be on the following criteria:

(a)Highest total score for Technical Merit; if scores remain tied, use criterion (b).

(b)Highest score for Routine Content; if scores remain tied, use criterion (c).

(d)Determined at the discretion of the Judging Panel.

11.5.4In the event of a tied score for Freestyle, a decision will be on the following criteria:

(a)Highest total score for Musical Interpretation; if scores remain tied, use criterion (b).

(b)Highest score for Routine Content; if scores remain tied, use criterion (c).

(d)Determined at the discretion of the Judging Panel.

c)A full rationale for the proposed amendment

As Freestyle requires more creative moves & gestures & expressive choreography that interprets the music, the tied markings should be reflected through Musical Interpretation.
This scoring further differentiates the two classes of Dances with Dogs, which is helpful to competitors, judges, and spectators.

d)List of any rules which could be affected as a result of a consequential change/s from a proposed new rule or an amended rule

None.

a)The current rule number and rule detail.

APPENDIX A

DANCES WITH DOGS

JUDGES’ MARK SHEET

Club / Date
Category / Class / Competitor number
Judge / Judge’s Signature

Judging category

/ Maximum points available / Score

Routine Content (Max 20)

The routine should be varied with no excessive repetition of moves, befitting the category entered

10

Degree of difficulty in respect of the type of moves

5 Teamwork displays harmony, a strong relationship and enjoyment between dog and handler

5

Technical Merit (Max 20)
Accuracy of the heelwork/positions/moves and the dog’s speed in responding; a smooth flow from one move to the next by both handler and dog / 10

The quality of moves and the extent of mistakes and /or refusals

5

The dog works in a natural and willing manner / 5
Musical Interpretation (Max 20)
Interpretation of the music, reflecting rhythm and phrasing of the music in changes and moves / 6
Movements are complementary to the routine’s concept / 6

Choreography is apparent and flowing. The routine includes

balance, structure, design and makes best use of the available space

/ 6

Costume is appropriate to and enhances the routine

2

Sub Total
Deductions
TOTAL

b)The proposed amendment

PPENDIX A

DANCES WITH DOGS

JUDGES’ MARK SHEET

Club / Date
Category / Class / Competitor number
Judge / Judge’s Signature

Judging category

/ Maximum points available / Score

Routine Content (Max 20)

The routine should be varied with no excessive repetition of moves, befitting the category entered

10

Degree of difficulty in respect of the type of moves

5 Teamwork displays harmony, a strong relationship and enjoyment between dog and handler

5

Technical Merit (Max 20)
Accuracy of the heelwork/positions/moves and the dog’s speed in responding; a smooth flow from one move to the next by both handler and dog / 10

The quality of moves and the extent of mistakes and /or refusals

5

The dog works in a natural and willing manner / 5
Musical Interpretation (Max 20)
Interpretation of the music, reflecting rhythm and phrasing of the music in changes and moves / 5
Movements are complementary to the routine’s concept / 5

Choreography is apparent and flowing. The routine includes

balance, structure, design and makes best use of the available space

/ 5

Costume is appropriate to and enhances the routine