An Informal Ball, With Tails Required

Ten owners and their dogs -- from border collie to German shepherd -- are signed up to learn to waltz, tango and boogie with Annette Helder at her training school near Groningen in the northern Netherlands.

“Dogs love when they get attention from their owners.... You teach the dog certain basic moves, like weaving between your legs, circling, walking backward,” said Helder, who charges $60 for eight lessons.

Helder said the activity has become a competitive sport in some countries, including the United States and Britain.