Dogs are amazing creatures that help mankind in a number of ways. Besides being loyal companions, they work as hunting dogs and herding dogs, can be trained to assist the police, assist people with different handicaps and physical issues, comfort others as therapy dogs or just entertain us.
I actually think that dogs who learn entertaining stunts think of it as play. Here are some dancing dogs and one “singing” one.
Sara and Hero
Sara and Hero almost didn’t continue in the America’s Got Talent competition, but Simon Cowell saw something in their debut act. You may notice that Simon, although he has a reputation for being harsh and critical, has a serious soft spot for dogs. Hero is a Border collie, and you will notice a few other Border collies in this list. The breed has a reputation for being agile and very trainable. I love the clever little heist story told through this act.
Ashleigh and Sully
Ashleigh first appeared on Britain’s Got Talent with her adorable dog Pudsey. Sadly, Pudsey is no more, but Ashleigh continued to act with Pudsey’s friend and Ashleigh’s second dog, Sully. This act has a bit of a boxing theme, but Sully doesn’t seem too fierce.
Marc Metral and Wendy
As a puppeteer, I find Marc Metral’s act fascinating. He essentially does a ventriloquist act with his little dog, Wendy. Someone mentioned in the comments that Metral uses a false jaw for Wendy which he can operate. This makes complete sense to me, since I’ve seen ventriloquists use false jaws on audience volunteers. I’m sure the fact that Wendy is such a fluffy dog helps to hide any attachments.
Jules O’Dwyer and Matisse
Here’s another little heist story with an ending so touching I teared up a little bit. It also has its funny moments and some demonstrations of amazing dog agility.
The following three acts are from Crufts, an annual international canine event held in the UK.
Lucy Creek and Skiffle
Skiffle shows himself to be “Lord of the Dance” in this act set to Celtic music. He also “plays” some sort of wind instrument which is rather clever.
Mary Ray and Her Two Dancing Dogs
The announcer gives Mary Ray credit for introducing “heelwork to music” to the UK. Her act to “Singin’ in the Rain” is very imaginative. I love the spinning umbrellas and the foot crossing little dance steps.
Lusy Imbergerova and Deril
This faithful “army dog” helps his soldier with her morning exercises and even performs CPR. I love the storytelling in this act.