Boy and Dog

Dog Projects

201D You and Your Dog:
  • Learn about all aspects of dog care and welfare while keeping complete records of you experience as a dog owner.
201o  Dog Obedience:
  • Obedience - The purpose of obedience is to demonstrate the dog’s usefulness as a companion. Youth train their dogs to behave in the home, in public places and in the presence of other dogs in a manner that will reflect credit in the sport of obedience at all times and under all conditions. 4-H obedience competitions demonstrates the handler’s ability to work as a team with their dog, following specified routines in the obedience ring and emphasizing the usefulness of their dog as a companion.
  • Brace - is an obedience competition where one handler manages two dogs simultaneously through a series of obedience exercises that are performed in unison, such as heeling, figure-8, and recalls.This class is designed to test control and teamwork.
  • Rally - is a team-based class that emphasizes teamwork, enthusiasm, and flow.  The handler and dog sequentially navigate a course of 10–15 numbered, instructional signs, each sign requires a specific obedience skill (heeling, turns, sits, stays).
201S Showmanship:
  • Demonstrates the teamwork between the handler and the dog, showcasing the handler’s skills. Regardless of the breed of dog, handlers will learn the skills required to present their dogs to the best of their abilities, bringing out the finest qualities in their dogs. The handler’s presentation of the dog is being judged, not the dog’s conformation. Handlers will learn breed characteristics for the breed their dog most represents. The handler will also test their knowledge about dogs and responsible dog ownership by participating in an interview.
201P Performance:
  • Agility - In this class the handler guides their dog through a time obstacle course to demonstrates their dog’s physical ability, soundness, and willingness to work with its handler in a variety of conditions. This event requires conditioning, concentration, communication, training and teamwork. Handler and dog MUST have 1 year of obedience or currently taking obedience.
  • Drill Team - is a class that is performance-based, choreographed team event where 4-H members and their dogs (4 dog and 4 handlers) work together to perform, in unison.
  • Freestyle - This class is a choreographed musical routine.  The handler and dog perform a combination of obedience, tricks, precise movements, and dance. The routine is often themed and includes costumes and props to match.
  • Scent Work - In this class a handler will teach their dog to detect hidden scents, such as essential oils or handler items in containers or interior rooms. This is a positive, challenging activity that allows dogs the opportunity to use their strongest natural sense in a way that is fun, engaging, and that builds and strengthens a foundation of trust between the handler and dog.
201W Working Dogs: 
  • This project is for 4-H’er that have or are training assistance dogs or working dogs. Service dogs, guide dogs, herding dogs, and search and rescue dogs are just a few of many types of working dog.
202 Dog Achievement Program:
  • This Project encourages handlers to accomplish personal goals and master life skills with their dogs, without competing against other 4-H dog project members.  Handlers can earn pins and certificates by selecting from hundreds of activities that cover basic training, exercise, health and safety.
230 4-H PetPALS:
  • Pets Pals is a GROUP activity. Handlers learn to train and prepare their pets so they can participate in animal-assisted activities as a team. Handlers learn about animal behavior, animal handling techniques and proper pet care. They gain a greater appreciation for their pet and form a stronger human-animal bond. 4-H volunteers help youth with the skills needed to interact with residents in healthcare facilities, while becoming more compassionate and caring.