Hulu: The Secret Life of Dancing Dogs
This show on Hulu came out of nowhere for me, I heard about it the day it came out so the excitement was fresh, and I had immediate excitement. I personally do not participate in this sport (it’s not as common in the United States), but I do enjoy watching the carefully planned performances on YouTube (and of course the national Crufts performance). I’ve also had people share performance videos with me (typically when a Border Collie is the star, because that’s the breed I own). I always welcome these!
With just six episodes, this series packs a punch of entertainment. The kind that led me to indulge in a binge-watching spree, precisely timed to commence once my son was snugly in dreamland.
The heart of the show orbits around the participants gearing up for the 2023 Crufts—a name that instantly rings a bell for enthusiasts. It’s a captivating journey that navigates through the lives of both new contenders and seasoned pros. Oh, and let’s not forget, there’s a pinch of drama (yes, Jennifer, we see you), but at its core, the series radiates the bonds forged and the positive reinforcement guiding every step.
Picture this: Your furry companion locked in on you, and only you, for roughly three minutes straight—equivalent to the length of a song—amidst a sea of hundreds, no, thousands of eager spectators (Crufts is nothing short of colossal!). It’s a remarkable feat for the average person, and truthfully, even seasoned dog trainers should nod in admiration. The dedication is staggering. Months of relentless practice not only perfecting the moves but synchronizing them flawlessly, amid various scenarios (an ode to why top-notch trainers advocate for extensive dog socialization and the word proofing gets tossed around a lot). It’s a labor of love aimed at ensuring that neither the performer nor the owner succumbs to stage fright or misses a beat. Though, let’s be real, in the realm of living creatures, mishaps happen.
On the note of proofing and socialization, this is a dog sport that is not just for the young. Which, is refreshing, to be honest! Most people believe you have to do everything while you’re young, but not Dancing with Dogs. You don’t have to be young, nor does your dog. In fact, there was a comment by a previous winner who said her 1.5-year-old dog was too young, and not ready yet.
Yet, beyond the glittering performances and competitive edge, “Secret Life of Dancing Dogs” unearths the profound compassion harbored by ‘dog people’ for their furry friends. It’s not just about investing ample time in training—tricks, socializing, proofing, manners—it’s about wholeheartedly investing in their well-being. Lucky’s saga, traversing all the way to Japan for surgery (and then again for a check-up), resonates deeply. For Isa, Lucky’s health took precedence above all else. Period.
So, do yourself a favor—dive into this captivating show! Experience the triumphs, the bond, the drama, and the sheer dedication these dancing duos exude. Once you’ve journeyed through these captivating episodes, drop a comment below and share your thoughts. After all, the beauty of this sport lies not just in the performances but in the conversations and connections it sparks.
