In freestyle heeling, the focus is placed on the dog's heel position and the dog's execution of heeling patterns to music. Showcasing the dog's talent is the primary objective, with the handler's role remaining quite understated. Musical freestyle is not heeling with music in the background. MCSI rules encourage the dog to move out of the heel position to perform a variety of movements and tricks not found in a traditional obedience performance. The handler freely uses the body, arms, and legs to interpret the music.
Footwork is a mixture of dance-related steps and traditional movements at different speeds.
Because of the freedom for both the canine and human partners, musical freestyle routines incorporate creativity and diversity of movement. Musical freestyle is a competitive sport. A handler and dog team may compete in three different classes at three different levels.