Dogs

Dogs

Dog Project

Whether you are preparing to purchase or adopt your first dog or you just want to learn more about the dog you currently own, the 4-H Dog Project will teach you how to select the right dog, how to properly feed and groom your pet and the basics of training, judging and showing. 4-H dog members can also learn about dog agility.  Members also develop skills in record keeping and public presentations.

4-H Project Record Books are an important part of all 4-H projects.  In the Dog Project, you will keep records on:

  • Vaccination record and dates.
  • Expenses: Veterinary, food and supplies, training fees, etc.
  • Income: Awards, pet sitting jobs, sales of puppies, etc.
  • Training record for your dog.
  • Experience in community service, club activities, any offices held, dog activities, presentations, etc.

There is a day of dog related workshops, generally held in May. This event gives youth the opportunity to attend with our without a dog to improve on their handling, grooming and obedience skills, gain new knowledge and meet other youth with a passion for dogs.

A State 4-H Dog Show is generally held in the month of June.  This is a great opportunity for members to meet other 4-H dog enthusiasts from across the state and prepare for the Eastern States Exposition 4-H Dog Show held in September in West Springfield, Massachusetts.

It is recommended that club members or their families own a dog, although it not a requirement.

If you are interested in becoming a 4-H Dog Club Leader or if you would like to join an existing club, check out the on-line club directory or contact your local 4-H Educator.

Dog Shows and Camps:

State

       To be determined

Local

VERIFICATION FORM

Due June 1- Required in 2021. If you lease or own your dog and plan to exhibit at a 4-H show or event. Please return to your county 4-H office.

2021 Dog Verification Form

 

Dog Resources:

Each 4-H Dog Club is provided with a copy of the source, "The Dog Breed Bible". If you have not received your copy, contact your local 4-H Educator.  Other suggested resources:

 

Training videos available to watch from Ohio State University and the AKC:

Members:  may request one free copy each of the AKC publications listed below.  See address below under Leaders section:

  • Obedience Regulations.
  • Junior Showmanship.
  • Dogs—A General Information Booklet.
  • Canine Summer Safety.
  • Winter Care for Canines.
  • Getting Started Series.
  • Rules Applying to Dog Shows.

Leaders: may request one free copy of each of the AKC publications listed above, and the following:

  • AKC Order Form.
  • Canine Good Citizen Program Information.

Print your name, address, city, state, and ZIP code and send the postcard to:
American Kennel Club
5580 Centerview Drive, Suite 200
Raleigh, NC  27606-3390

 

For further information, please contact:

Carrie Chickering-Sears
State 4-H Animal Specialist
University of Massachusetts Amherst 
100 Venture Way, Suite 334
Hadley, MA 01035-9462
413-545-5302
ccsears@umext.umass.edu