4-H Dog Program

4-H Dog Project

The 4-H Dog Project provides youth with a fun, hands-on learning experience that helps develop life skills while teaching valuable information about properly caring for their animals. Topics such as general care, nutrition, housing, training, and healthcare are covered in the curriculum, through workshops, and in preparation for an exhibit. Youth also have the opportunity to develop responsibility, decision-making, nurturing, and communication skills through active participation in the 4-H Dog Project.

Fostering Healthy Relationships

What better way to foster a healthy relationship than through a youth and their dog working together as a team! This teamwork promotes responsibility and strengthens the bond between the child and the family pet. Both the pet and the child benefit from this connection. 4-H offers various events throughout the year to promote these beneficial outcomes. The 4-H Dog Program provides obedience classes and a variety of performance events, with additional opportunities that don't require a dog, offering something of interest to all youth. Watch the website for updates on available programs and registration information.

4-H Dogs at the Fair!

Open to All 4-H Members: Participants do not need to be members of the PAWS Club to participate.
Evaluation Criteria: The evaluation will be based on AKC rules and the discretion of the officials.
Requirements:
- All dogs MUST BE vaccinated for rabies (see 2025 St Lawrence County Free Rabies Clinic Schedule here )
- It is recommended that dogs also receive vaccinations for distemper, hepatitis, and leptospirosis.
- NYS Dog Registration and NYS 4-H Dog Policy must be submitted to CCE office by June 1st.
- All participants must submit a rabies certificate and entry form to the CCE office by July 1, 2025.
Class Entries: Class entries may be adjusted at the discretion of Show Management, Extension Personnel, and/or the Judge.
Safety & Conduct:
- Show Management, Extension Personnel, and/or the Judge reserve the right to remove any handler and/or dog deemed a risk to the safety of other competitors.
Collar & Leash Guidelines:
- No pinch collars, choke chains, head halters, or flexi-leashes are allowed.
- Only buckle or snap collars and a 4-6 foot leash are permitted.
- Martingales are allowed.
Leash Requirement: All classes will be done on-leash.
Showmanship Class: All participants must compete in the Showmanship class to show in breed classes.