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 agility, 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.
The State 4-H Dog Camp is a weekend event, generally held in May. This event gives youth the opportunity to take their dogs to camp to improve on their handling, grooming and obedience skills plus have a fun time at camp.
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 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, please contact one of our dog program coordinator listed below or your local 4-H Educator.
Dog Shows and Camps
State
2018 State Dog Camp May 11-13; 
2018 State Dog Camp Information & Registration Forms - Final
Local
2018 Thunderhill Canine 4-H Dog Show
Cave Canem 4-H Dog Club Show 2018
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:
Points to Consider When Purchasing Companion Animals
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:
Molly Vollmer, Extension Educator and Plymouth County Extension Director
44 Obery St.
Plymouth, MA 02360
774-404-7021
mvollmer@umext.umass.edu