Starting off
If you're not sure how to get started in Heelwork to Music, first take a look at the Getting Started page.

First Show
Once you have started training your dog and understand how Heelwork to Music works, you will want to think about entering a competition. To be sure you are prepared, take a look at the 'Going to your first competition' checklist below. 

Progressing
When you have gained more experience, you are likely to set your sights on progressing into more advanced classes. To progress, you accumulate points which are awarded for gaining a fourth place or above in a standard Heelwork to Music or Freestyle class:

(After you progress, your points go back to zero).  

Excellent Awards
When you win out of a class you are entitled to use the initials for that class after your dog's name on entry forms and in catalogues; only the most recent award is used. The initials for Heelwork to Music are HTM St, HTM N, HTM I and for Freestyle the initials used are FS St, FS N, FS I. Gaining at least 24 points at Advanced entitles you to use the initials HTM A or FS A. 

Competitors who have gained at least one first place while progressing can claim a Heelwork to Music Excellent or Freestyle Excellent award from the Kennel Club. The award entitles you to use the appropriate 'Ex' title after the relevant initials, for instance HTM St Ex or FS A Ex. A Press Release dated 16 February 2009 gives more details of the Excellent awards and how to claim them.

Crufts Competition
For Advanced dogs and handlers, the main target in the UK is to compete at Crufts. Qualifying heats are held through the year for the following year's Crufts. More about Crufts Heelwork Competition.

Other information

• Registering your dog with the Kennel Club
• ATC (Authority to Compete) Form for dogs from overseas
• Heelwork to Music Regulations
• Show Diary (PDF)
• Claiming a Freestyle Excellent or Heelwork to Music Excellent award

Going to your first competition

• Find out when and where Heelwork to Music Competitions are being held in your area, either by emailing showdates@thekennelclub.org.uk, by phoning 0844 463 3980 Ext 207, or by downloading a copy of the Show Diary (PDF) for Heelwork to Music Competitions.
• Get a copy of the schedule for any shows you are interested in - contact the Secretary shown in the Show Diary to request a schedule
• Check the classes for which you are eligible (if you are just starting this will be Starters classes)  - and send off the entry form and your payment - watch out for the closing date
• Check on the requirements for your music - usually explained in the schedule but if in doubt call the Secretary to check. Always take a spare tape, CD, DVD etc in case of technical problems.
• On the day of the show, remember your props and costume, music, the schedule and directions to the venue, your HTM Record Book and any entry passes you have been sent. And your dog!
• Allow plenty of time; get ready early; chat to your fellow competitors and watch their routines to learn useful tips and moves

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