4-H Dog Project

Calendar of Events

2026 Educational/Kickoff Meeting (NO DOGS)  

UW-EC Barron County Campus, Ritzinger Hall room 204

1800 College Drive, Rice Lake WI 54868

March 10 (Tuesday) at 7PM

At the UW EC Barron County Campus

1800 College Drive, Rice Lake

Ritzinger Hall Room 204

♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧♧

Paperwork/Shots due – April 1 (Dogs cannot attend until all paperwork is turned in) 

Meet & Greets (WITH DOGS) (Dogs Required to come with student) 

These classes are for new (1st year) members and/or any dog new to the project.Two (2) classes are required to be able to participate in dog (if member and dog can’t make 2 classes please speak with a Barron County Dog Committee member to work out a plan)

Off leash training and improvement for ANY student with dog(s) that have been in the project for 2 yrs on up.

• Dates – April 7, 14, and 21 
• Location- UWEC-Barron County Campus. Rooms 204 – 205.  You can enter through Door RS1 with your dog.  This door is located at the rear of Ritzinger Hall.  Please see the map on the next page.
• Time:
  • 1st years start at 6:30 PM
  • 2nd years start at 7:00 PM

1. Enroll  in 4-H with Barron County Dog Project (you don’t need to be in a 4-H Club to enroll in Dog)
2. Make a vet appointment for your dogs shots
3. Read Handbook
4. Vaccinations Shots needed – Vets signature 
5. Registration: Form link (Due March 21st with picture and shot records) – Members may join the dog project after March 21, but forms and vaccine records need to be uploaded before
6. Put in your Calendar datesof training sessions and fair
7. Pay via check or Venmo – @bcdogprojectf.
8. Email questions to Dog project

September-December

Enroll in Dog Project on 4honline.com. If you were not enrolled in Dog Project in 4honline by October 31, contact a Leader to make sure you get on our email list. (Leader contact information is in the project handbook.)

September to December is our off-season, but your dog learns every day! If you want to train in the off-season, contact a Leader for suggestions.

This is a great time to make your educational displays to enter in the fair, such as posters, handmade items for dogs, and photography!

January-April

Check the Dog Project calendar to start planning your schedule. 

Check your dog’s vaccine record to make sure they are current and meet the requirements in the handbook. Get a printed copy of your dog’s proof of vaccination from your veterinarian.

Begin tracking time and expenses with the project sheet. This will help you complete your record book in August.

Watch your email for educational opportunities related to the Dog Project, such as Project Discovery Days activity offerings.

April

Register by the March 21st deadline. The registration form and dog questionnaire will be shared in late February or early March. Submit dogs’ proof of vaccination, dog questionnaire, and project fee ($25 per youth, $50 maximum per family, financial assistance is available) with the registration form to the 4-H office.

If you miss the April 1st registration deadline, please contact a dog project volunteer to discuss options.

Youth in their first year of Dog Project and dogs who have not participated in 4-H group training classes previously begin training classes in  early April. 

Youth and dogs should attend or make-up 2 out of 3 of these meetings. Contact a Leader if you have concerns about attendance.

Last weeks of April through July

• Obedience classes
• Agility classes
• Showmanship classes

Group classes begin the last week of April and continue weekly through the fair in July. Youth must attend or makeup 75% of obedience group classes and agility classes (if participating in agility). Contact a Leader if you have concerns about attendance.

July

The Agility Show is held the Wednesday before fair week, at the fairgrounds.

The Dog Obedience Show is held on the Wednesday of fair week, at the fairgrounds. 

August

Complete your project sheet for your record book. Submit your record book to your Club Leader by your club’s deadline.

Don’t stop training! Your dog learns every day, not just during Dog Project group lessons! If you’re not sure what to train in the off-season, contact a Leader.

2026 4-H Dog Project Handbook

Project Information and Requirements 

For updated information – please see the 4-H Dog Project Handbook by clicking HERE.

• Barron County Dog Project is open to all 4-H members enrolled in the dog project in grades 3 through 13.
  • Any New dog/child combinations will be evaluated the first night of training. Leaders will determine if child will be able to safely control dog during class. If the dog is too powerful for the child to control, an alternate dog may need to be provided for training or the child may be asked to wait another year to begin training. Leaders will determine placement of dog/child.
• All handlers and dogs participate at their own risk and are responsible for themselves and their dog at all times..

• Cloverbuds may participate in meetings and observe group classes when accompanied by a parent/guardian. Cloverbuds may not handle a dog at 4-H events.
• Youth are not required to own a dog to use it as a 4-H project animal.
• All registration forms, vaccination certificates and dues must be received on the Dog Project Registration google form by April 1st. Dues may be paid in person on the first night.
• A vaccination certificate MUST be signed by a veterinarian. A receipt or a photocopy of a dog’s medical record is not acceptable. We need the actual certificate showing dates, what vaccines were given, and when vaccines are due.
• A vaccine certificate showing current vaccinations is required at each event that dogs attend, such as Training Check-ins and Seminars.
• Vaccinations must be kept current. If not the dog will be required to leave until shots are updated and proof is given to the dog project. 
• We recommend that exhibitors keep a copy of their vaccination records handy. Some find it helpful to store a photo of their records on their cell phones.
• DATCP does not allow a dog to be shown by more than one person in the same division. This means 4-H members cannot show the same dog in agility/obedience at the same time.  If 4-H members wish to share a dog and show and qualify for agility; they can choose one 4-H member to show in obedience and one to show in agility. Both 4-H members need to practice obedience with the dog.)
• There might be unique circumstances (safety, ability, accommodation needs, etc.) where handbook guidelines may need to be adjusted on a case-by-case circumstance. 

Registration/Fees

Registration forms/fees and Dog questionnaire are due by April 1 for anyone attending beginners sessions for participation, a project fee of $25 per youth (maximum $50 per family) is required.  Financial assistance is available.

Vaccination Requirements

Vaccinations: Vaccinations are probably the single most important part of your dog’s health. There is nothing more tragic than a wonderful, loyal pet coming down with a deadly disease that could have been prevented.

The following vaccinations are REQUIRED: 

• Rabies vaccination is required by state law . Rabies is a highly contagious disease transmitted by the bite of infected animals to humans and animals.
• Distemper – Infectious viral disease causes destruction of nerve tissue. 
• Hepatitis – Highly contagious viral disease affecting the liver and other organs. 
•  Leptospirosis – Contracted by skin to skin contact or coming in contact with urine from an infected host.It travels through the bloodstream and affects the kidneys and liver. This is also able to transfer from animals to humans 
• Parainfluenza – Highly contagious bacterial or viral disease causes 

inflammation to the trachea, bronchi and lungs. 

• Parvovirus – Infectious viral disease, affects the digestive system, may also cause heart failure. Can kill the affected dog within hours 
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough) – Highly contagious airborne disease. This vaccine is only good for six months. Be sure to check that your vaccine is good through July 15th.
• Flea and Tick Preventive –As application is directed to control fleas & ticks. Highly recommended. If your dog gets fleas it will be out for the recommended treatment time and verification it is flea free.

Other treatments suggested for your dog: 

• Lyme disease vaccination – Transmitted by bite from a Deer Tick. May cause arthritis and lethargy. 
• Canine Influenza

  Bacterial infection affects the respiratory system. 

•  Heartworm Preventive – Transmitted by bite from mosquitoes. Controls parasitic worms transmitted by the eggs already in the ground 
• Blood test: performed every year to test for diseases. 

Any exceptions to required vaccines must be requested by a licensed veterinarian in writing and submitted to the Board before the registration date of the current year. Exceptions can only be approved for Leptospirosis vaccine, vaccine titers, and for dogs unfit for vaccination.

  Vaccination Requirements

Vaccinations: Vaccinations are probably the single most important part of your dog’s health. There is nothing more tragic than a wonderful, loyal pet coming down with a deadly disease that could have been prevented.

The following vaccinations are REQUIRED: 

• • Rabies vaccination is required by state law . Rabies is a highly contagious disease transmitted by the bite of infected animals to humans and animals.
  • Distemper – Infectious viral disease causes destruction of nerve tissue. 
  • Hepatitis – Highly contagious viral disease affecting the liver and other organs. 
  •  Leptospirosis – Contracted by skin to skin contact or coming in contact with urine from an infected host.It travels through the bloodstream and affects the kidneys and liver. This is also able to transfer from animals to humans 
  • Parainfluenza – Highly contagious bacterial or viral disease causes
    • • • inflammation to the trachea, bronchi and lungs. 
  • Parvovirus – Infectious viral disease, affects the digestive system, may also cause heart failure. Can kill the effected dog within hours 
  • Bordetella (Kennel Cough) – Highly contagious airborne disease.
  • Flea and Tick Preventive –As application is directed to control fleas & ticks. Highly recommended. If your dogs gets fleas it will be out for that year classes and competitions

Other treatments suggested for your dog: 

• Lyme disease vaccination – Transmitted by bite from a Deer Tick. May cause arthritis and lethargy. 
• Canine Influenza

  Bacterial infection affects the respiratory system. 

•  Heartworm Preventive – Transmitted by bite from mosquitoes. Controls parasitic worms transmitted by the eggs already in the ground 
• Blood test: performed every year to test for diseases. 

Any exceptions to required vaccines must be requested by a licensed veterinarian in writing and submitted to the Board before March 21st of the current year. Exceptions can only be approved for Leptospirosis vaccine, vaccine titers, and for dogs unfit for vaccination.

Group classes will be held on the south side of the Barron County fairgrounds. Please park as shown on the map above.

Due to temperature, the restrooms might not be open
during the first few group classes.

If using the accessible parking area near the restrooms, please arrive early if possible, and watch for dogs and children in the road. If using the accessible parking area near the grandstand, please drive around the track. The ambulatory accessible parking on Short Street is not wheelchair accessible.

Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to walk your dog at the fairgrounds before class. Remember to pick up after your dog!

Do not allow your dog to greet other dogs, even if your dog is friendly or knows the other dog(s).

First-year: 

• Parents/guardians, please walk your dog for your child. Please stay with your dog until collar checks are done.
• Meet in the obedience class area along the fence.*
• Practice relaxation or pattern games until class begins.

Second-year and up:

• Meet in the obedience class area along the driveway.*
• Practice relaxation or stand for exam until class begins.

*when it is hot and sunny, we will meet in the shade under the grandstand.

What to bring:

Bring these items to class every time! Dress for the weather – we might need to wear coats and gloves at the first  couple of group classes!

• Closed-toe, closed-heel shoes. No sandals, crocs, or slip-on shoes.
• Water bucket or bowl, and water
• 6-foot leash
• Dog Project binder
• High-value treats or toy (hot dogs! cheese!)
• Poop clean-up bags
• Relaxation mat
  
• Tug toy (optional)
• Squeaker, if a Leader has suggest you use one
• Treat pouch, if you have one
• Training collar, if a Leader has asked you to use one
• Show lead, if you plan to participate in showmanship

• Water and water bowl 
• Poop bags. Keep a bag in your pocket so you’re ready for surprises
• Pants or shorts with pockets, or a treat pouch on a belt are recommended. Treat pouches are available to buy.
• Shoes must be able to stay on your feet and protect your feet.

Flat Buckle Collar

• It’s best to use a different collar for obedience than the collar your dog wears with tags on it
• Choose a flat buckle collar made out of fabric (such as nylon webbing) or leather
• Choose a collar that is appropriate for the size of your dog. 
• The collar must be fit so that it cannot be pulled over your dog’s head. If your dog’s neck is bigger around than its skull, then choose a martingale collar. 

6-Foot Leash

• Choose a leash that is 6 feet long
• Do not use a leash with padding, bungee, chain, etc. Do not use a retractable leash
• Dog Project has leather leashes for sale. Contact a Leader to purchase

Treats or Toys

• Dogs repeat behaviors that have been rewarded until the behaviors become automatic. The more we reward the behaviors we want, the sooner they will be come automatic!
• Biscuits, kibble, and cheerios might be great motivators for your dog at home. But group classes are distracting and most dogs need better treats. Choose tiny, soft, smelly treats like chopped hot dog or cheese. Treats should be about the size of a pencil eraser. 
• We recommend using a treat pouch. Treat pouches will be available to buy at class. 
• Some dogs prefer to play tug instead of eat a treat. If your dog prefers to play tug, bring one or two tug toys to class and let your Leader know before class begins

Training Collar

Some dogs might need a training collar, headcollar, or body harness to participate in group classes safely. If you think your dog might need a training collar, let a Leader know when you register. 

• Water and water bowl 
• Poop bags. Keep a bag in your pocket so you’re ready for surprises
• Pants or shorts with pockets, or a treat pouch on a belt are recommended. Treat pouches are available to buy.
• Shoes must be able to stay on your feet and protect your feet.

Flat Buckle Collar

Use the same flat buckle collar as for obedience class.

6-Foot Leash

Use the same leash as for obedience class.

• Water and water bowl 
• Poop bags. Keep a bag in your pocket so you’re ready for surprises
• Pants or shorts with pockets, or a treat pouch on a belt are recommended. Treat pouches are available to buy.
• Shoes must be able to stay on your feet and protect your feet.

Show Lead

Showmanship Leads are special leashes used only for showmanship. They are designed to be lightweight and unobtrusive, and can be made of cloth, chain, or leather. We will have slip leads available to use until youth make or get a show lead. Ask a Showmanship Leader if you need help choosing a show lead.

Grooming Tools

Dog handlers get their dogs ready to show by maintaining their coat, nails and teeth. Youth will need a nail file, toothbrush, dog-safe toothpaste, and appropriate brushes or combs for their dog’s coat type. Click here to learn what grooming tools to pick for your dog and how to use them. 

Show Outfit

Youth may need a different outfit if showing at the fair. Click here to learn what types of clothes work best for showmanship.

Enrollment

1. How do I enroll my child in Dog Project?

Your child can either enroll in JUST the Dog Project or enroll in the Dog project as a secondary club if they are involved in a 4-H Club.

Enroll in 4honline in September or October. If it is after October 31, also email a Leader so you get on our contact list. (Leader contact information is in the project handbook.) 

2. How can my child participate if we don’t own an eligible dog?

Youth can borrow a dog! If you don’t know anyone with a dog you can borrow, ask a Leader for help.

You may also consider applying to foster a dog from the Humane Society of Barron County. A Dog Project Leader works with this shelter and can help determine if any adoptable dogs might be a good fit for your family and for your child to train in 4-H obedience classes. 

3. I have 2 children and 1 dog. Can they both participate in Dog Project and train our dog?

We don’t allow 2 youth to train one dog. You can borrow a dog for one of your children. If borrowing dog is not an option, please be aware that, at the fair, a dog cannot show in more than one class, unless approved by the board under extenuating circumstances 

4. I have 2 dogs. Can my child train show both dogs in Dog Project?

A second-year youth can train and show 2 dogs in Dog Project. However, they can only enter one dog per obedience entry class at the fair.

5. What is the registration form for? Where do I get it?

The Dog Project registration form and dog questionnaire are to sign up for group classes. They are due March 21st, along with proof of vaccination and project fee ($25 per youth, $50 maximum per family). The registration form is shared in late February or early March. Forms will be available online starting in January.

Participation & Attendance Requirements

1. My child cannot meet the group class attendance requirements due to custodial placement or visitation. Will they be able to participate and show?

Yes! Leaders can make exceptions to the attendance requirements when youth cannot meet them due to custodial placement or visitation. Talk to a Leader to get help adjusting training so your child doesn’t miss important skills.

2. My child cannot meet the group class attendance requirements due to health problems. Will they be able to participate and show?

Yes! Leaders can make exceptions to attendance requirements when youth have health problems. We might ask youth to complete training at home (if they are able). Talk to a Leader to get help adjusting training so your child doesn’t miss important skills.

3. My child has a disability. Can they participate?

Yes! Many people with various disabilities enjoy training dogs. We accommodate for disabilities. Please contact a Leader if you have any concerns about your child’s ability to participate, even if you’re not sure your child’s difficulty, symptom or condition is a disability.

4. My child is in another activity and cannot attend several meetings or group classes. Can they still participate in Dog Project?

Yes! It’s very common for youth to miss several meetings or classes due to another activity or sport. Your child can continue training at home and use in-person and/or virtual make-up options. Please contact a Leader if you are concerned about your child’s exhibition eligibility for obedience or agility.

Dog Eligibility and Health

1. My dog has a health problem or special needs. Can my child participate in Dog Project with my dog?

Dogs with health problems (e.g., blindness, lameness, overweight, etc.) should be seen by a veterinarian to determine their ability to participate in training classes. If a Leader is concerned about a dog’s physical ability to participate in training safely, they can require veterinarian approval for a dog to participate in training classes. 

If your dog is not able to participate in obedience and/or agility classes, your child can still participate by borrowing a dog! If you don’t know anyone with a dog you can borrow, ask a Leader for help. You may also consider applying to foster a dog from the Humane Society of Barron County. A Dog Project Leader works with this shelter and can help determine if any adoptable dogs might be a good fit for your family and for your child to train in 4-H obedience classes. 

2. My dog is hurt! Should we come to class?

If your dog has a minor injury that should heal in a week or so, come to class without your dog. If you can contact a Leader in advance, you might be able to borrow a trained dog to practice with during class.

3. My dog has a serious injury! Now what?

If your dog gets a serious injury that will take a month or more to heal, contact a Leader. Depending factors such as the time of year and your child’s experience in Dog Project, a Leader might make an exception to the attendance policy or suggest a dog your child could borrow so they can continue participating in Dog Project.

4. My dog is in heat! Now what do we do?

If your dog comes into heat, your child should continue to attend classes and continue training at home. If your dog is in heat during the fair, your child can only participate in obedience, trick, and costume competitions and in an area away from other dogs. See the project handbook for more details.

Dog Vaccinations

1. What vaccines are required?

• Rabies vaccine, as required as by State law
• Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus
• Bordetella
• Lyme and Canine Influenza vaccines are recommended, but not required

2. What is proof of vaccination?

When your dog is vaccinated, your veterinarian will provide a “vaccination certificate,” which lists your dog’s vaccinations and the dates they expire. Your dog’s Rabies vaccine certificate must be signed by your veterinarian. 

3. My dog’s most recent vaccinations were not given by a veterinarian. Is my dog eligible?

No. Vaccinations must be given by a veterinarian. 

Class Schedule

1. What happens when events/classes are cancelled?

Cancellations will be notified by email, the Dog Project Facebook page. Weather cancellations are determined 2 hours before the event (i.e., weather cancellations for 6 p.m. classes are decided at 4:00 p.m.)