The dog project is an exciting opportunity to spend time with your furry friend while learning valuable skills. Participants in this project will learn how to care for a dog and how to train a dog in basic or advanced commands. Any kind of dog may be used in this unique project that is not designed to conform to the American Kennel Club or other professional standards. Members without dogs may wish to participate in quiz bowls, conference and other activities that do not require dog ownership.
Explore your Spark! |
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Things to Learn and Do
![]() Every 4-H project offers a variety of activities and learning opportunities to suit your interests and strengths. Whether you're just getting started or taking your knowledge to the next level, there are several activities to learn and do throughout your project experience! |
Beginner
- Choose the right dog for your family
- Explore dog behavior and body language
- Learn grooming basics
- Begin obedience training
Intermediate
- Select nutritious dog foods
- Identify dog breeds and their purposes
- Show your dog in showmanship
Advanced
- Continue advanced obedience training
- Learn local dog laws and ordinances
- Explore the value of assistance dogs and careers with working dogs
Project Materials
New Kansas 4-H Dog Show Rules (January, 2023)
This rule book is designed to help establish uniform regulations and procedures for the 4-H dog shows and events throughout the state. Please use this book as a guide when setting up your shows and establishing show rules. All judges should be made familiar with 4-H dog show rules and objectives, which are often different from other organizations’ rules.
- Scoresheets from Kansas 4-H Dog Show Rules (January, 2023)
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- These are the same scoresheets as inluded in the full rules. This is a seperate file for easier printing.
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Reasonably priced materials are available for every project in Kansas 4-H. You can order the materials for your project online or contact your local Extension Office.
Dog Care & Training (DG100)
Project Leader Resources and Quiz Bowl Contest Resources
- Dog Helper's Guide
- Dog Resource Handbook from Ohio State University (2018)
- Kansas 4-H Dog Care & Training Project Leader Notebook. This notebook has been pulled in 2019, since it has some information that is not correct. County/District offices still have a file copy to view.
General Dog Care & Training Resources and Quiz Bowl Contest Resources
- 4-H Dog Care and Training Educational Resource List
- Kansas 4-H Agility Update (2023)
- Kansas 4-H Dog Show Immunization Record Mg34, rev., October 2017. (May be printed on any weight of paper and on any color of paper).
- The Style of Rally Obedience (Not a Quiz Bowl Contest Resource)
- Rally Obedience Laminated Card Set (Print Only) (Not a Quiz Bowl Contest Resource)
- All About Dogs (OH 4-H)
- 4-H Dog Showmanship YouTube - NE 4-H
- Backyard Agility Courses - Steven Schwarz
- List of Online Agility Resources
Related Resources - Veterinary Science
Awards and Recognition
Scholarships
County Level
Medal presented at your 4-H award recognition event
State Level
Medallion and Scholarship to attend National 4-H Congress
- Participants may attend National 4-H Congress once as an active 4-H member
National Level
Represent Kansas at National 4-H Congress
Events and Activities
Learn more about project-based events here or contact your local office for additional information.
Next Steps - Career Exploration
Completing a successful 4-H project is just the beginning of finding your spark. Members can take several meaningful steps to further develop skills and interests. Learn more about these exciting opportunities in career exploration: