Surprise Your Reception Guests with a Doggie Dance!
Including Pets in Weddings
Yes, it’s true. You can dance the night away with your new spouse and your dog. What fun it would be to include your dog in your reception by adding a doggie dance to the DJs list of announcements! Of course, if you haven’t done so already, you must first train your dog to dance. There are now freestyle trainers available to teach your dog to dance with you. But, you don’t have to hire a trainer, or be an expert freestyler yourself. Now, you can teach your dog some basic dance steps right in your own living room. Ask us Vermont Pet Friendly Weddings or share your comments. To feature your Vermont wedding or pet friendly lodging, contact us.
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Of course it wouldn’t hurt, and it may simplify the process, to observe a freestyle demonstration before beginning your doggie dance lessons. To start dancing, your dog needs to know the ‘heel’ command (walk on your left side), and the ‘right’ command (walk on your right side). Teach these basic commands first and then start adding spins, leaps, and more complex moves to your routine. Freestyle trainer information is available at the end of this article.
Music Selection Is Very Important
The first step is to make sure your dance music is enjoyable for both you and your dog. While you may enjoy pop music, your dog might prefer classical or country and western. If your dog doesn’t like the music, he will demonstrate disobedience by laying down or walking away. You will be able to tell your dog’s preference by his reaction to the different types of music you select. The one he responds to most eagerly is the best type to use while dancing at your reception.
Learn Basic Dance Steps First
Assuming your dog has been through basic training and understands the ‘heel’ command, it will be easier for both of you to start your dance steps with him on your left. Start by holding his favorite soft treat in your left hand, allowing him to get just a whiff of it. When his interest is peaked, begin to slowly walk and turn, keeping the treat just slightly ahead of him at nose level. Once he has the idea, reward him with the treat and begin again with another, this time increasing your turn until it becomes a spin… now you and your dog have started four-legged dancing!
Add Advanced Steps To Your Routine
Once you have the turn and four-legged-spin routine down pat, try to add a four-legged hop or leap, or a two-legged spin. These steps are more difficult and may require a trainer’s input. It is important to teach a command word to coincide with each dance step your dog learns. For example, if you want him to stand on his hind legs, you could use the command ‘up-tall’. If you want him to turn on his hind legs, you could use the command ‘up-turn’. You will most likely have to help your dog balance at first by gently holding his front paws, or with a larger dog, by placing his front paws on your shoulders. This practice aid could lead to a new dance step called ‘up-waltz’…
Make Lessons Fun
Remember to keep lessons enjoyable and brief. This will entice him to want to dance more often – to the point that he even starts begging for a lesson. Doggie dancing is great fun and a good form of exercise for both you and your dog. And, when you get really good at it, you could enter a freestyle competition to show off your talent.
Above all, remember that this is a fun activity for you and your dog. If he doesn’t want to dance you won’t be able to make him do so. Some dogs just don’t have a talent for dancing and would be happier watching from the sidelines.
Online Freestyle Organizations Are Available
The Vermont Inn, 69 Rt. 4, Mendon, VT 05701 | 800-541-7795
This 1840 farmhouse on six acres surrounded by the Green Mountains was featured in Recommended Country Inns of New England and VERMONT Magazine, and offers fine dining with an extensive wine list. Golf and ski packages are available.
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Castle Hill Resort and Spa, Junction of Rt. 103 & 131, Ludlow, VT 05149
Tucked in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Castle Hill Resort and Spa is the perfect destination wedding venue for capturing dreams and creating memories. An elegant full service resort awaits your most precious day with wedding packages available for 2-250 people. Experience the magic, wonder and romance of a wedding at the Castle Hill Resort and Spa.
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Green Mountain Inn, 18 Main Street, Stowe, VT 05672
Classic… timeless… exquisitely orchestrated - your wedding celebration at the historic Green Mountain Inn in the heart of Stowe village – a short walk from the Stowe Community Church (popular for ceremonies). The beautiful Main Street Dining Room sets the stage for a remarkable event, and guests may choose from 105 rooms, luxury suites & townhouses.
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Middlebury Inn, 14 Court Square, Middlebury, VT 05753 | 802-388-4961
With 71 guest rooms, the Middlebury Inn offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and classic historic charm. Welcoming travelers since 1827, the inn now offers all of the amenities of a full service hotel, including fine dining, a pub, and meeting and banquet space to accommodate your Vermont wedding. Located between Burlington and Rutland and convenient to many Vermont attractions, this inn is perfect for that pampered fresh-air getaway, family reunion or professional retreat. Check current room availablities.
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The Governor's House in Hyde Park, 100 Main Street, Hyde Park, VT 05655 | 802-888-6888 or Toll-Free 866-800-6888
Centerpiece of a quiet village, the completely restored historic mansion offers modern comfort with the gracious elegance of an earlier time. Period furnishings. Bedroom fireplaces. Mountain views. Jane Austen weekends. Afternoon tea. Small private events, and weddings. The perfect elopement package.
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Best Western Inn & Suites, 5 Best Western Place, Rutland, VT 05701 | 800-780-7234
For spacious comfort in the heart of Vermont's picturesque Green Mountains, visit the Best Western Inn & Suites located in the Rutland / Killington area. Situated near charming antique shops, famous covered bridges, historic museums, and Killington - Pico skiing and golfing. Daily complimentary continental breakfast of hot waffles, fresh fruits, sweet pastries and a selection of yogurt and cereal finished with bottomless Green Mountain Coffee®. Free wifi and an outdoor heated pool.
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Odyssey Events VT, 276 Laber Road, Bridgewater Corners, VT 05035 | 802-342-1513
Hands-on cooking classes offered by Chef Ted at his mountain top idyll. Discuss the many possibilities or choose from pre-scheduled classes. From pastas and pizzas to meats, seafoods, vegetables, and desserts. Learn then eat what you cook. BYOB.
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Strong House Inn, 94 West Main Street, Vergennes, VT 05491 | 802-877-3337
The Strong House Inn is located in the heart of the Champlain Valley. This historical Inn has 14 individually decorated guestrooms, on five acres of gardens and trees with classic New England architecture and the comfort and luxury of a modern day Inn. The Inn is a perfect location for weddings, receptions, and rehearsal dinners and meetings for up to 50 people. Join us for Quilting in Vermont, the ultimate setting for quilters to reignite their creative passion and be spoiled in the process. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a foodie experience, or a once in a lifetime event…we have an adventure waiting for you!
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The Barn at Boyden Barn Farm, VT Route 44, Cambridge, Vermont 05444 | 802-598-5509
Experience the true authentic Vermont beauty of Boyden Farm. Our 1900’s historic hayloft barn, open farmland and mountain views are the perfect setting for your wedding or corporate event. Reservations include onsite amenities; pricing based on hourly, midweek or weekend rates and availability. .
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Belle Savon Vermont | 802-751-5287
Belles Savon VT, Vermont Artisan Favors, and Gifts. A unique gift boutique located in the beautiful Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. We specialize in sustainable and locally sourced custom wedding favors and gifts to help celebrate your big day or every day, created with intention which by definition means gifting someone something they will love, need, or use. Inspired by the beauty of Vermont. Our gifts can be shipped worldwide!
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Brandon Inn, 20 Park Street, Brandon, VT | 802-747-8300
The historic Brandon Inn in the center of the Vermont Village of Brandon features comfortable accommodations in a historic New England Country Inn. Amenities include a full hot breakfast and free Wi-Fi. A work desk and seating area are found in the individually decorated rooms all with a full bathroom and hairdryer. Common areas and dining rooms are found on the ground floor of the Inn. Meeting facilities and destination weddings are a specialty. Book direct by telephone or online.
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Jay Peak Resort, Hotel Jay, 830 Jay Peak Road, North Troy, VT 05859
Welcome to Jay Peak - The Top of Vermont! Experience mountain thrills by day and cozy up with family fun by night around the firepit. The Jay Peak Resort features a Pump House Indoor Waterpark, Jay Peak Resort Golf Course, Flyer Express Quad. On-site spa has 2 treatment rooms. Find current specials and rates below.
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The Lodge at Spruce Peak, a Destination by Hyatt Residence, 7412 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT 05672
Welcome to Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont! This Luxurious ski resort by Hyatt Destinations offers ski-in/ski-out access. The resort's spa offers in-room massages and wellness treatments such as aromatherapy, body scrubs, body wraps, and facials. Other on-site facilities include a steam room, a sauna, and a spa tub. Find exclusive specials and rates below.
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Trapp Family Lodge, 700 Trapp Hill Rd, Stowe, VT, 05672
Escape to the enchanting Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont, where Austrian charm meets breathtaking Green Mountain views. Indulge in cozy accommodations, world-class dining, and endless outdoor adventures on over 2,500 scenic acres. Whether you're savoring a quiet moment by the fire or exploring the trails, the Trapp Family Lodge promises an unforgettable Vermont retreat. Check availablilities and current specials below.
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The Norwich Inn, 325 Main Street, Norwich, VT 05055 | 802-649-1143
The Norwich Inn is a historic Vermont inn located just across the river from Hanover, New Hampshire. An Inn has been on the site since 1797; the current Victorian Structure since 1890. We offer 38 guestrooms, Pub, Dining Room, and Microbrewery. The Brewery at the Norwich Inn is one America's oldest brewery. All Jasper Murdock Ales and craft beer are brewed on premises. Check current room rates and availabilities.
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You and your dog might enjoy freestyle more if you can participate with other dancers to gain input and exchange ideas. Call a local obedience trainer and ask if they offer freestyle training. National freestyle organizations exist and are available online – they are the Canine Freestyle Federation (www.canine-freestyle.org), and the World Canine Freestyle Organization at (www.woofs.org/wcfo).
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