Introduction to the New Hampshire 4-H Dog Project
Dogs have been part of the NH 4-H animal project offering since the late 1940’s. Though they are available in many breeds, a purebred dog is not required in 4-H. All that is required is that the 4-Her cares and trains the dog properly. In the dog project, members learn about dog and puppy care, training, nutrition, health, and careers. Knowledge can be gained by attending club meetings, clinics and dog camps. Divisions for youth in 4-H dog shows and fairs are: Family Dog (8 to 11 year old members only), Fitting & Show, Obedience, and Service Dog.
- Required Participant Age: 8-18 as of January 1 of the current year.
- Required Animal Age: 6 months or older.
- Animal Vaccination Requirements: Rabies vaccination must be current, and at least 30 days prior to shows or events. Animals must be healthy/free from signs of communicable disease prior to attending any show or event. Certificate of veterinary inspection may be required by some events and is required to bring an animal outside the state of NH.
- Recommended Animal Vaccinations: Distemper, Bordatella, (Kennel Cough), Lyme. Check with your veterinarian as vaccination and biosecurity recommendations change frequently.
- Recommended Animal Identification: There is no permanent identification required although it is strongly suggested (microchip, tattoo).
- Dog project animals must be entered into a 4-H member’s ZSuite account by June 1 (including a copy of the animal borrowing/ sharing form if applicable) to be eligible to show at NH 4-H shows.
- NH 4-H Policy on Replacement Dogs: If a member’s only project dog dies, becomes unhealthy or unsuitable, a replacement animal may be shown immediately after completion of a new Intent to Show, provided the member had the original project dog verified on/before the June 1 deadline, however substitute animals are not allowed at Eastern States Exposition (Big E).
- Youth 12 and older as of January 1 of the current year may participate at the 4-H Dog Show at Eastern States Exposition (The Big E) in September/October if they have exhibited in at least one dog show and have obtained a score of 310 in the Knowledge Quiz, Fitting & Show and Obedience combined.
- Youth wishing to partake in this team need to complete the following qualification criteria found in the NH 4-H Qualifying for ESE form.
- Additional animal criteria and requirements can be found at: https://www.thebige.com/p/competitions/4-h/packets.
- NH 4-H Animal Science Bonanza
- NH 4-H All About the Dogs Weekend
