The Dog Program is one of the most popular programs in Snohomish County 4-H. Nearly 700 4-H members particpated in events with their dogs. The Dog Program is more geared towards members who are third grade and above. The member must be able to physically control the dog. Borrowing a dog is alright as long as the member has regular access to the dog for training.
In the Dog Program members learn about:

• Dog Obedience
• Fitting and Showing
• Judging
• Bones, Parts, and Breeds
• Dog Care
• Record Keeping
• Public Presentation
• Leadership
• Community Service

Activities in addition to regular club meetings may include:

• Tours
• Speakers
• Parties and Fun Events
• Retreats and Picnics
• Award Ceremonies
• Fund Raisers

At county level, members can participate in:

• Judging Contests and Clinics where they assess performance in Obedience and Fitting and Showing, and idnitify bones, parts and breeds. There are four contests and two clinics each year.
• 4-H Fun Match is an annual event held in June. Members compete in Obedience and Fitting and Showing. This provides show experience before the summer fairs.
• County Awards Ceremony which is usually held in November. Members recieve Record Book Awards, awards for outstanding effort, and the Top Dog award winner is announced.

There are always several shows a year including those offered at local fairs.
Events at the fairs may include:

• All levels of Obedience
• All levels of Fitting and Showing
• Breed Conformation
• Costume Contest
• Educational Displays
• Groom Squad
• Blindfold I.D.
• Shop Project
• Agility
• Musical Squares
• Dumbbell Toss
• Photography
• Herdsmanship
• Gunny Sack Races
• Adult Day
• Blue Ribbon Day

Online Dog Related Publications from WSU
Dog Project Record
Fitting and Showing Your Dog
Service Dog/Puppy Project Record

Related Links

Links outside Washington State University provide an option for finding further information on a variety of topics. No endorsement of products or information is implied. disclaimer

American Kennel Club
Breed Clubs - United States
Alaska Dog Mushers Association
American Boarding Kennels Association
American Rare Breed Association
Animal Poison Control Center
North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals

For more information, call or E-mail the Extension office. The phone number is (425)357-6044 or send an E-mail to Marilyn Anderson.