2018 Dakota County 4-H Dog Project Handbook Dakota County

Transcription

1 2018 Dakota County 4-H Dog Project Handbook Dakota County - 1 -

2 Dakota County 4-H Dog Project Handbook Contents Purpose of Dog Project... 3 Help! (4-H adult volunteer adult leaders)... 3 Overview of 4-H Dog Project Dog Project Calendar... 5 Policies Safety Issues H Dog Training Classes H Dog Training Classes Offered Obedience Showmanship Agility Rally Getting the most out of your classes Showing your dog in the County Fair 4-H Dog Show The meaning of ribbons County Fair Options in addition to/or instead of showing your dog at the Dakota County 4-H Dog Show State 4-H Dog Show Dog Project Bowl Adult Volunteers Needed Outside of 4-H Dog Project Resources

3 Purpose of 4-H Dog Project The purpose of the Dakota County 4-H Dog Project is youth development. Training and caring for a dog is one way to build life skills in a young person. A number of life skills and character qualities will be indirectly used in the process of caring for and training a dog. Some of these include responsibility, persistence, patience, record-keeping skills, communication skills, and much more. Parents and 4-H ers need to remember that competitive events such as the county fair are but one piece of the puzzle rather than the entire goal of this program. The purpose for the 4-H Dog Project (from the Minnesota 4-H Dog Show Guide) is to help 4-H ers: Develop leadership, initiative, self-reliance, and sportsmanship Experience the pride and responsibility of owning a dog Learn a greater love for animals and develop a humane attitude toward them Prepare for citizenship responsibilities by working together in groups and supporting community dog projects and activities Questions? This is a list of 4-H adult volunteer leaders whom you may contact if you don t find the answer to your question in this handbook, or need a clarification about something. Kelsey Aszmann tegapup@aol.com Jan Brule janbrule@aol.com Leona Hellesvig hellesvig@yahoo.com Mary Lemke maryellenlemke@gmail.com Anja Johnson, 4-H Program Coordinator akoester@umn.edu University of Minnesota Extension, Dakota County The Dakota County 4-H Dog Project Development Committee (PDC) made up of 4-H ers, volunteers, and extension staff provides direction for the project and is open to any 4-H member, parent, or leader in the dog project. Overview of 4-H Dog Project There are many ways to be involved in the 4-H Dog Project. This handbook will outline many opportunities for participation. You may have some ideas for other activities as well. Most 4-H dog project members do own and care for their own dog, but you don t need to have a dog to be involved in dog project. Some of the ways 4-Her s who do not own a dog can become involved include the 4-H Dog Bowl team (a knowledge quiz game), and Exploring Dogs / Dog Science which is an educational display, and demonstrations (speeches) of skills and knowledge learned. It is also possible for a 4-H er to train and show a dog belonging to another person (neighbor, friend, family member, this is called a lease). Please see that section under policies for more information about this. The 4-Her who owns a dog usually begins with a 4-H obedience training class offered at the county level. This first class can be the stepping-stone to a much greater experience. Here are ways you can be involved in Dakota County 4-H Dog Project: Training Classes held weekly during the summer months 1. Agility 2. Obedience 3. Showmanship 4. Rally Dog Project Bowl during the winter months 1. Weekly meetings to learn about dog care, health, dog breeds, and much more. 2. Quiz bowl competitions against teams from other counties in Minnesota, held in March. 4-H Dog Project kick off meeting held the last Monday in April. 1. Project meetings are a time to update rules, plan educational activities, and provide direction for the 4-H Dog Project. 4-H Dog Show (and a chance to show at the state 4-H dog show!) 1. Obedience 2. Showmanship 3. Agility - 3 -

4 4. Rally obedience 5. Fun classes (costumes, tricks, others) 6. AKC Canine Good Citizen Test (open to all breeds and mixed breeds) 4-H Educational Exhibits 1. Educational science displays 2. Demonstrations Other 4-H Dog opportunities available from time to time across Minnesota, these opportunities may have requirements for participation 1. Invitational 2. State Fair 4-H dog demonstrations 3. Super Session: A 4-H Dog Project Training Workshop - training for leaders and members 4. Training for volunteer youth and adults Additional 4-H activities may be organized by your local 4-H club for the members in your club

5 Dog Project Calendar Event/Activity Date Time Location Description 4-H Dog Kick Off Night Monday April 30, p.m. Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center, Farmington 4-H Dog Rally Camp TBD TBD Watch for more information. 4-H Dog Agility Camp Intermediate, Senior and Advanced Levels TBD TBD Pawformance K9s 6806 E. 250 th St. Elko, MN Everyone is encouraged to attend. You will get to ask lots of questions, learn about the dog project, what to expect and what s new for the year. Intermediate, Senior and Advanced 9 am-1 pm Cost: TBD This camp is intended to give 4-Her s an additional opportunity to have one-on-one training to enhance their skills and dog performance. 4-H Dog Agility Camp TBD TBD Watch for more information Beginners and Elementary Dog Project County Fair Prep Night Meeting Monday July 23, p.m. Dog Training Area located on the grass by the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center, Farmington Learn the ins and outs of preparing for the county fair dog show and make sure you are registered for the correct classes before show time. 4-H County Fair Dog Show Saturday, July a.m. Dakota County Fairgrounds Dakota County 4-H Dog Show judging 4-H State Dog Show Sept. 23 & 24, 2018 Minnesota State Fairgrounds 4-H State Dog Show judging Dakota County 4-H 2018 Dog Training Class Schedule Training Classes: held at the Dakota County Fairgrounds directly behind the Dakota County Extension Conservation Center in Farmington Week 1 May 7 7pm: Obedience (first night - no Rally) Week 2 May 14 7pm: Obedience and Rally 7pm: Testing out of foundation (need score sheets) Week 3 May 21 6pm: Beginner - Elementary Agility Sequences 7pm: Obedience and Rally 8pm: Intermediate - Advanced Agility Sequences Week 4 May 28 Memorial Day - No Practice Week 5 June 4 6pm: Beginner Elementary Agility Sequences, Showmanship 7pm: Obedience and Rally 8pm: Intermediate Advanced Agility Sequences, Showmanship Week 6 June 11 6pm: Beginner Elementary Agility Sequences, Showmanship 7pm: Obedience and Rally 8pm: Intermediate Advanced Agility Sequences, Showmanship Week 7 June 18 Tonight we will have no Showmanship - Focus on Rally 6pm: Beginner Elementary Agility Sequences, Rally 7pm: Obedience and Rally 8pm: Intermediate Advanced Agility Sequences, Rally Week 8 June 25 6pm: Pre-Agility, Beg. Elem. Agility Sequences, Showmanship 7pm: Obedience and Rally 8pm: Intermediate Advanced Agility Sequences, Showmanship Week 9 July 2 6pm: Pre-Agility, Beg. Elem. Agility Sequences, Showmanship 7pm: Obedience and Rally 8pm: Intermediate Advanced Agility Sequences, Showmanship Week 10 July 9 Tonight we will have no Showmanship Focus on Rally - 5 -

6 6pm: 7pm: 8pm: Pre-Agility, Beg. Elem. Agility Full Course, Rally Obedience and Rally Intermediate Advanced Agility Full Course, Rally Week 11 July 16 6pm: Pre-Agility, Beg. Elem. Agility Full Course, Showmanship 7pm: Obedience and Rally 8pm: Intermediate Advanced Agility Full Course, Showmanship Week 12 July 23 6pm: Pre-Agility, Beg. Elem. Agility Full Course, Showmanship 7pm: Review of Fair, Obedience and Rally 8pm: Intermediate Advanced Agility Full Course, Showmanship Saturday, July 28 County Fair Show 9:30 a.m. Set-up At practice location 10:30 a.m. Registration begins 11:00 a.m. Show starts Training will continue after the County Fair in preparation for the State Dog Show. Dates to be determined by the trainers. Dog Training class will be held rain or shine except for extreme weather. If a training class is cancelled due to weather, participants will be notified by before 4:30 p.m. Check your before leaving home if the weather is in question. Policies Vaccinations All dogs attending class, or entered in the Dakota County Fair 4-H Dog Show are required to have proof of current vaccinations for rabies, and a DHLPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvo, and Parainfluenza) shot. These are both required by Minnesota 4-H dog show rules Rabies vaccination is required by state law. ****It is recommended that you visit your vet at least once a year to be sure that your dog is protected. The shots will protect your dog from a variety of canine diseases. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about vaccinations for Corona virus, and Bordetella. Although it is not required, you should also have your dog checked for heartworm (blood test), and other internal parasites (microscopic examination of a stool sample). You should follow your vet s recommendations about heartworm preventative pills, and/or other de-worming measures. Remember to bring your MN 4-H Dog Project Identification Affidavit and Vaccination Verification form with you when you visit your vet as your vet has to sign this form by May 15.**** Minimum age of dog The minimum age for a dog to show in the 4-H Dog Project obedience, agility, and showmanship classes is twelve months. Puppies that are between six and twelve months of age may be shown in Grooming and Manners. Puppies between three and six months of age must be shown in the Pet Project. Puppies under three months cannot be exhibited at the fair because they are too young to have their rabies shot. Paperwork The Minnesota 4-H Animal Science Projects require that all dogs have positive identification in 4HOnline or file at the Extension Office by 4:30 p.m. on May 15 or if mailed, be postmarked NO LATER than May 15. ID s received after 11:59 p.m., May 15 will be considered late. NO EXCEPTIONS. 4-H families should self-enter 4-H Dog ID information in their 4HOnline account. Below are the documents that must be submitted BEFORE you may participate in the 4-H dog training classes. MN 4-H Dog Project ID worksheet. Please note: A vet s signature is required on ID worksheet by May 15 You must upload a photo of your dog, not a drawing

7 Dakota County 4-H Animal Science Lease (if leasing a dog) Dakota County 4-H Dog Training Class fee $30/Dakota County 4-H member (covers entire summer of training) Agility Release Form (this form will be available at registration desk at dog practices, will be required to submit closer to county fair, watch for more information) Documents should be uploaded in.jpg format 4-H Dog ID Worksheets Each 4-H member MUST have their own dog ID on file. Example, if you and your sibling are using the same dog at the county fair, you EACH must complete and sign a different ID Affidavit for that dog. This would mean the dog would have two separate ID s on file. Only one 4-H member and one dog per ID form are acceptable. You may turn in as many dog ID forms as you want, but you can only show two dogs at the Dakota County 4-H Dog Show. 4-H Dog ID worksheet must have veterinarian signature, so plan ahead! Schedule your vet appointment early so you don t miss the May 15 ID deadline. All of these items must be turned in BEFORE you begin your first 4-H Dog Training Class. Please bring the forms to Dog Kick-Off Night, or the first class session. All dogs MUST be ID ed by May 15. If required documents (Dog ID worksheet) is submitted after the May 15 ID deadline, participants are still able to compete at the Dakota County 4-H dog show but they are ineligible for awards higher than a blue, red or white and are not state dog show eligible. Minnesota 4-H is using its online enrollment system, 4HOnline, to record all animal identifications in HOnline has the capability to track animal ownership and identification data and has been used successfully in other states. Online animal identification reduces inaccuracies and inefficiencies that were a part of our past paper system. More information and a 4HOnline user guide can be found at Cloverbuds 4-H Cloverbud classes are non-competitive (i.e. participation ribbons only, no blue, red, white or champions). An adult or older 4-H youth leader must be in control (holding the leash) at all times. The 4-H Cloverbud member will stand near the dog. The Cloverbud will be asked simple questions about care and grooming of the dog, and asked to give simple commands to the dog (sit & stay, down & stay, etc.). This is a State Policy, no exceptions! Dog training is not offered to cloverbud participants, however cloverbuds are welcome to attending dog training (at no cost) and watch and then go home and practice what they have learned. Cleanup All members are required to clean up after their dogs. Being able to use the Dakota County Fairgrounds for the Dakota County 4-H dog training classes depends on your cooperation. It is city law, as well as just being courteous to other 4-Her members and the Dakota County Fair board. In addition, if everyone cleans up after their dogs, this will also help to keep the spread of parasites to a minimum. Plastic bags are a convenient way to clean up after your dog. Invert the bag over the object to be picked up, and you may then pick it up without getting your hands dirty. Everyone is EXPECTED to bring their own plastic bags for cleanup. Females in heat Females in heat CANNOT attend the weekly training class. Females in heat cannot be shown in agility or showmanship at the County Fair 4-H Dog Show (and are not permitted at Minnesota 4-H events). At the Dakota County 4-H Dog show during the county fair, they may be shown in obedience only, and then only by special arrangement (you will be required to keep the dog well away from the show area to avoid any possible distraction to other dogs entered in the show, and will compete alone after the judging of all other dogs in the show is complete). In addition to distracting all of the males in the show, causing them to not perform well in their classes, you take the risk of an unplanned mating if you bring her to a situation where other dogs are present. If your female comes into heat, please attend the class WITHOUT your dog. Watch the lesson that is presented, and then practice it at home. Most females are in heat for about 3 weeks. Please give your dog a bath before returning to class (to remove the scent)

8 Leasing a dog It is permitted by the Minnesota State 4-H dog rules that you can choose to borrow a dog to train in the 4-H dog project. This is called leasing. If you will be using a dog that is not your own, you must provide the primary care and be the sole trainer for that dog from May 15 th to the fair (or state show). A copy of the lease agreement MUST be attached to your 4-H dog ID s and must be turned in with the rest of your 4-H paperwork to register for 4-H training classes. Use the 2018 Minnesota 4-H Animal Science Lease Form at 2018 Minnesota 4- H Animal Science Lease Form. Copies are also available from 4-H staff at the Extension Office. Lease agreements must be on-file in 4HOnline or turned in at the Extension Office by May 15th. From a practical standpoint, it may mean that the dog can still live at the home of its actual owner, but 4-H rules would require you to go daily to the house where the dog lives to feed, walk it, groom it, and train it. It is always preferred to keep the dog at your own home (but not required). If the dog will not be living with you, please be sure that no one else will be training the dog. The Role of a Parent Parents must at all times remember that in the Dakota County 4-H dog project, it is the 4-H MEMBER S responsibility, and not the parent s responsibility to do the actual training of the dog. A parent should not train the child s dog for them. It is acceptable for a parent to assist a 4-H er who is having trouble controlling a dog, but it would be unacceptable for a parent to train the dog in a 4-H class (or at a training club class) while the 4-H member is using this dog for 4-H in the same activity. If a 4-H er is unable to attend training classes, the parent should not train the dog for the member. Parents should encourage practice and attendance. More than one child using the same dog More than one child may use the same dog for the 4-H dog project with the following restriction: only one person may train and show the dog in obedience (except brace class), only one person may train and show the dog in agility, and only one person may train and show the dog in rally. Two members may show the same dog in showmanship IF they are in different classes (a new rule, beginning in 2008). In other words, sister may show Rover in obedience, and brother may show Rover in agility, both may show Rover in showmanship if they will be in different classes, but brother and sister may not both show Rover in obedience classes, even if they are in different obedience classes. Cloverbuds may use the same dog as an older brother or sister. Training more than one dog MN State 4-H dog show rules allow you to show up to two dogs. You can show in no more than one individual obedience class (not counting 4-dog team) per dog, one agility class per dog, one jumpers agility class per dog, one rally class per dog, one showmanship class, brace, and 4-dog team, for a maximum of 11 classes. This total does not include any of the fun classes, science displays, or demonstrations. Communicable diseases Any dog with symptoms of a communicable condition (kennel cough, mange, etc.) will not be permitted in class. Please take your dog to a veterinarian for evaluation and treatment, and return to class only after the problem is treated. You are encouraged to attend class WITHOUT your dog, and practice at home, as permitted by your veterinarian. Attending non-4-h classes Attending training classes held by dog training clubs, community education, and other sources is permitted. Good sportsmanship; however, may demand that you show at a higher level of 4-H obedience class if you began your training before May 7. Please discuss this with the county 4-H dog project development committee if you are in doubt about the correct training level you should compete in. Bad weather In case of severe weather or extreme heat (tornadoes, and very severe thunder storms), classes will be cancelled. If it is a regular rain storm, classes will continue as scheduled. In the case of a mild thunderstorm, it will depend on weather. Remember, that if it rains on the day of the Dakota County Fair 4-H dog show, the show is outside in the rain. Dogs need to get used to working in these conditions during practice so they will still work for us if it is raining on the show day. Watch your for a cancellation notice if one occurs, decisions will be made by 4:30 p.m. Mistreatment of dogs Absolutely no abuse or mistreatment of dogs will be tolerated in the 4-H dog project. Anyone caught hitting, kicking, or otherwise physically abusing a dog will be immediately referred to the 4-H program coordinator, and will not continue in the 4-H dog training classes

9 ***Please use care with dogs being left in cars in the summer as well. The temperature inside of a car parked in the sun (even with the windows rolled down) can reach temperatures high enough to cause brain damage in only 10 minutes. Leaving a dog in a car in hot weather is considered abuse under Minnesota law. Law enforcement personnel are permitted to break into cars to rescue dogs. Safety Issues Dogs not enrolled in class Dogs that are not enrolled and ID ed in 4-H dog classes can NOT be present. The fair grounds are NOT considered public property (they are owned by the fair board), and 4-H insurance will not cover any incidents with non-4-h dogs. Exceptions MAY be granted to instructors, and speakers to use their own dog for demonstration purposes while teaching a 4-H dog training class. The exceptions will be done on an individual case basis. To apply for an exception, see a member of the Dakota County 4-H dog project development committee. 4-H training classes are not a place to bring your puppy for socialization. Parental attendance requirement Parents of all 4-H dog project members must stay for training class. Members should not simply be dropped off and picked up later. Often, the beginning member experiences difficulty in handling their dog. Even if the dog is small, and no difficulties are encountered, having an extra set of ears listening to the trainers instructions will be very helpful in working on the homework assigned, and will greatly encourage your 4-H er. Parents of all members in advanced classes are encouraged to stay. Younger siblings staying to watch Spectators are welcome at all of our classes. Bringing young children to the class is greatly discouraged. The trainers (leaders/mentors) cannot watch youth who are NOT enrolled in the 4-H dog project. The 4-H program will NOT accept responsibility if your child wanders into a dog ring or is accidentally bitten. The sound of a child crying can be enough to excite the predator instinct in a dog, and a child running can excite the chase instinct in a dog. If a large dog were to charge a small child, the (inexperienced or surprised) 4-H er on the other end of the leash may not be able to control the dog. Aggressive Dog Policy Any dog who attempts to bite or attack a human or another dog will be removed from class until the situation is reviewed by the Dakota County 4-H Dog PDC (including representation from 4-H screened adult volunteer dog trainers, the 4-H Program Coordinator, and the family of the 4-H er involved). They may rule to put the dog on probation, work individually with dog and handler, require the dog to wear a muzzle at all times, or in a severe instance, expel the dog from classes and 4-H exhibitions for a period of time. Expelling a dog should be a rare occurrence, but could be necessary for the safety of other members and dogs. The 4-H member is welcome to attend classes without the dog and train it at home, or to use a different dog. It should be further noted that all dog bites are required to be reported by Minnesota law. It is also important to note that YOU are legally responsible for the actions of your dog. Everyone in class should have appropriate liability insurance (usually a part of your home owners or renter s insurance policy) for your own protection. Use of agility equipment Anyone caught on the 4-H agility equipment without permission/supervision will be immediately suspended from class. The risk of injury is simply too great. A dog falling from a piece of contact equipment risks injury. Even if the dog isn t injured, training them later for agility is often much more difficult. 4-H Dog Training Classes Safety in class is everyone s responsibility. The first three weeks of class will be the most volatile, but everyone MUST always be on their toes: 1. Keep leashes short, and dogs separated from each other. 2. Do not touch anyone else s dog!! New surroundings and situations may make a dog nervous. 3. Do not make eye contact with another person s dog, or bend over another person s dog. 4. Be extra cautious when entering and exiting buildings (doorways), or waiting in a line. 5. Be very cautious of timid/fearful dogs. They often bite from fear. 6. Certain breeds and un-neutered males are more likely to be aggressive. Use caution. 7. Never put your face by any dog (including your own) in class. 8. Never approach a dog that is eating a treat or getting a drink of water. 9. Do not tie a dog and leave it unattended. Items to bring to class - 9 -

10 Good footwear is as essential as the right kind of collar. You should wear a well-fitting tennis shoe for dog training class. Water and a bowl from home for your dog. Plastic Baggies to pick up after your dog. Treats in training class is encouraged. Please bring SOFT treats (jerky treats, hot dogs, string cheese, etc.) cut into small pieces for your dog, Put these into a pocket or bait pouch until they are needed. See equipment below for other items to bring with to training Beginner obedience equipment Members in beginner obedience will need a 6-foot long leather leash, and a training collar. If you have a very small dog or a sensitive dog, a flat buckle collar may be used. Instructor permission is required for the use of other types of training devices. A soft leather leash is recommended since it will not hurt the handler s hands like a chain or nylon leash can. If a leather leash cannot be obtained, please wear gloves to protect your hands. Be sure to get a width that is sturdy enough for your dog. When purchasing a chain training collar, you should measure the dog s neck about midway down the neck, and then add approximately 2 inches to this measurement. If you have a breed with an exceptionally large head, or especially large ears, you will need to add 2 ½ or 3 (but this is not very common). It should fit snugly over the dog s head and ears, and have only about 2 slack in it. A collar that is too big (has too much extra chain hanging down) will not be effective, and can be downright dangerous. A collar that is too small will be difficult to get over the dog s head. Members showing in Foundation or Beginner obedience and Pre-Novice Rally may show their dogs in a Gentle Leader instead of the previous required slip training collar or flat buckle collar. Graduate Novice and Graduate Open obedience equipment Graduate Novice obedience class (about the 4 th year of dog training for the average 4-H er), you will need to get a dumbbell. Some students may wish to work on this sooner, and so, you may purchase it before the Graduate Novice year, but you will not need it for competition until then. The dumbbell you purchase should have a bit slightly larger than the width of the dog s mouth. It should be made of wood or white plastic. In the Graduate Open level (approximately the 7 th year of training for an average 4-H er), you will need a set of utility articles, and 3 white canvas gloves. See your instructor for details. Showmanship equipment All students in showmanship will need a special show lead for showmanship. There are three styles of leads that are acceptable, depending on the type of dog you have. For smaller breeds, the type with a double loop and a clip that slides up and down to hold the dog s head would be appropriate. Depending on the handler s preference, a martingale show lead would also be acceptable. For larger breeds, and herding and working breeds, a fine choke chain and thin leash would be the correct choice. The chain is similar to the obedience training collar, but slightly finer. The lead is made of a cotton or nylon cord, and much shorter than a regular obedience leash. Match the color of your dog as much as possible to the leash white lead on a white dog, tan lead on a tan dog, black lead on a black dog, etc. These are a bit harder to locate, but may be found at pet supply stores that work with people who show dogs regularly (such as Pet Supply, American Boarding Kennels, Show Quality Pet Products), and only rarely at the type of pet stores that work with the general public. They can also be obtained through mail order sources, and through vendors at nearly every all-breed dog show. Agility equipment When a collar is used (beginner required, elementary, intermediate optional) it must be a plain, flat, well-fitting buckle or clip/quick release collar with no tags or other attachments. Training collars, pinch collars, electronic collars, head halters, and fancy collars are not permitted. No slip leads or collars may be used during familiarization or competition. A slip lead may be used to bring a dog into the ring provided it is removed before the run begins. You will NOT be permitted to be on any agility obstacles if you have a chain training collar on your dog!! Never leave chain collars on for everyday wear Training purposes only. The nature of the collar (being a slip collar) is to become tight if caught on something, and the more the dog struggles to get free, the tighter it will get. Dogs can literally choke to death from catching the collar on an object. Use a plain buckle collar for everyday use, and reserve the chain collar for training only

11 ***Training collar MUST not have any kind of tags (no rabies tags, no licenses, no ID tags, no fancy charms) hanging from it. There is a correct way to put on the training collar, and an incorrect way. This will be explained in the orientation session, and checked for the first few weeks of class. Attendance at Class Class attendance is a must if you are going to make good progress with your dog. If you are going to miss one week for vacation, please ask your instructor about the next week s assignment so that you can practice at home. Agility Participants It is expected that you sign up to help with a minimum of 2 practices to help set up and take equipment down. Please sign up using the sign up genius prior to the first practice through the sign up system online a link will be mailed to all 4-H dog project families. Even if it is not your designated night to help set up or tear down equipment if you see that help is needed please lend a helping hand. Remember it is your responsibility to help because you are using the equipment and the trainers and volunteers are there to help you learn. Thanks in advanced for helping with the set up and take down of the agility equipment at practices

12 4-H Dog Training Classes Offered Obedience Foundation A 4-H er and/or dog in the first year of training. The dog may participate in this class only once during its 4-H career. A dog entering this class with more than ten weeks for training in an organized class prior to enrolling in Foundation level 4-H training classes is ineligible. They move to Beginner the following year. Exercises include: Heel on leash Figure eight on leash Sit for exam on leash in heel position Grooming Recall on leash no finish Sit Stay handler goes to the end of 6-foot leash, turns to face dog, and stays for 10 seconds and returns to dog Beginner A dog with previous experience in an n organized training class of weeks OR a dog that completed the Foundation class the previous year or a dog that received a red or white ribbon the previous year in the Beginner class. A dog with one leg of an AKC-PCD or AKC-CD obedience title (or equivalent) or Rally RN title (or equivalent) is ineligible. Upon receiving a blue ribbon or at the end of two years, the 4-H er and dog must move to the Graduate Beginner Class. Exercises include: Heel on leash & figure eight on leash Stand for exam on leash in heel position Grooming Recall on leash with finish (no penalty for stepping back) Down on command heel position a count of 5 by the judge Sit stay handler goes to end of 20 foot line, stops, turns and faces the dog for 10 seconds, and returns around dog Graduate Beginner A 4-H er and dog may participate in this class until receiving a blue ribbon at the county or state show level. A dog with one leg of an AKC- PCD or AKC-CD obedience title (or equivalent) is ineligible. Exercises include: Heel on leash & figure eight on leash Stand for exam on leash go to the end of the leash Heel free (leash over either shoulder) Recall off leash (take leash with you) with finish Sit Stay drop leash handler walks in a T pattern Down Stay drop leash handler walks in a T pattern Novice A 4-H er and dog may participate in this class until receiving a blue ribbon at the county or state show level. A dog with an AKC-CD obedience title (or equivalent) is ineligible. Exercises include: Heel on leash & figure eight on leash Stand for exam off leash Heel free Recall off leash with finish Group Long Sit drop leash 1 minute Group Long Down drop leash 3 minutes

13 Graduate Novice A 4-H er and dog may participate in this class until receiving a blue ribbon at the county or state show level. A dog with one leg of an AKC- PCDX, AKC-GN, or AKC-CDX obedience title (or equivalent) is ineligible. Exercises include: Heel on leash Heel free & figure eight off leash Moving drop on recall Dumbbell Fetch 30 seconds to have dog take the dumbbell Recall over high jump Recall over broad jump Group Long Sit drop leash 2 minutes out of sight Group Long Down drop leash 3 minutes out of sight Pre-Open All exercises are performed off leash. A 4-H er and dog may participate in this class until receiving a blue ribbon at the county or state show level. A dog with one leg of an AKC-PCDX or AKC-CDX obedience title (or equivalent) is ineligible. Exercises include: Heel free & figure eight off leash Drop on recall (may use command and signal) Retrieve on flat Dumbbell recall over high jump Broad jump Group Long Sit drop leash 3 minutes out of sight Group Long Down drop leash 5 minutes out of sight Open All exercises are performed off leash. A 4-H er and dog may participate in this class until receiving a blue ribbon at the county or state show level. A dog with an AKC-CDX (or equivalent) is ineligible. Exercises include: Heel free & figure eight off leash Drop on recall (either command or signal) Retrieve on flat Retrieve over high jump Broad jump Group Long Sit drop leash 3 minutes out of sight Group Long Down drop leash 5 minutes out of sight Graduate Open All exercises are performed off leash. A 4-H er and dog may participate in this class until receiving a blue ribbon at the county or state show level. A dog with one leg of an AKC-UD, AKC-GO, or AKC-UD obedience title (or equivalent) is ineligible. Exercises include: Signal exercise (with foot distance for down, sit, come) (may use command and signal) Scent discrimination (2 articles of each of 2 types just one is retrieved) Go out Directed jumping (from sit stay handler one side step permitted) judge s choice of high jump or bar jump Moving stand and examination Directed retrieve (2 gloves) Pre-Utility All exercises are performed off leash. A 4 Her and dog may participate in this class until receiving a blue ribbon at the county or state show level. A dog with one leg of an AKC-PUTD or AKC-UD obedience title (or equivalent) is ineligible

14 Exercises include: Signal exercise full distance (may use one verbal command) Scent discrimination (4 articles of each of 2 types 2 articles are retrieved) Directed retrieve (3 gloves) Moving stand and exam Directed jumping high jump and bar jump (handler one side step permitted) Utility All exercises are performed off leash. There are no restrictions in this class. A 4-H er may participate in this class with the same dog indefinitely. Exercises include: Signal exercise Scent discrimination (with 5 metal articles, 5 leather articles, or 5 wood articles handler s choice of 2 types) Directed retrieve (3 gloves) Moving stand and exam Directed jumping high jump and bar jump Veterans The Veterans class is for dogs that are too old and/or unfit to jump. If a dog under the age of seven years has been found unfit to jump by a licensed veterinarian, it will be allowed to compete in this class. A dog participating in Veterans Obedience cannot participate in any obedience or rally class that has jumping exercises. Participation in agility will not be permitted. Showmanship participation is permitted. Once a dog competes in Veterans at the county show level, it can never again be shown in any agility class or other obedience or rally class that has jumping exercises, even if being trained and exhibited by another 4-H er. A 4-H er may participate in this class with the same dog indefinitely. The Veterans scoresheet will be used. Exercises include: Heel on leash & figure eight on leash Stand for exam off leash Heel free Recall off leash Group Long Sit drop leash 1 minute Group Long Down drop leash 3 minutes is for either of two categories: 1) Rookie handlers (this is your very first dog training experience) working with a dog who has been trained through a Beginner obedience class by another person (important if the dog has had classes, you should be in Beginner B. If the dog has had more than 16 lessons, see a class trainer you MAY be asked to go to Graduate Beginner class); 2) Experience handler (this is your second or more training experience) working with a rookie dog (absolutely no previous training has been done with this dog by anyone). Brace For a 4-H er with two dogs of their own or those who wish to borrow/lease a dog if they do not have two dogs of their own. (A third dog cannot be used for Brace.) No particular level of training is required or prohibited in this class. A 4-H er may participate in this class indefinitely. The dogs may be shown coupled with a single leash or unattached with two leashes. The Brace scoresheet will be used. Exercises include: Heel on leash & figure eight on leash Stand for exam off leash Recall off leash Group Long Sit drop leash 1 minute Group Long Down drop leash 3 minutes Four-dog team For 4-H ers wishing to work together in training their dogs to perform as a unit of four. No particular level of training is required or prohibited in this class

15 Exercises include: Heel on leash & figure eight on leash Stand for exam off leash Team uniformity Recall off leash dogs will be called simultaneously Long sit off leash drop leash 1 minute Long down off leash drop leash 3 minutes The Four Dog Team score sheet will be used for judging. A 4-H er and/or dog can only participate on one Four-Dog Team per year. One alternate is allowed to be named if the team desires. The alternate must be named at the county fair or qualifying show. The five names may be registered as exhibitors, as long as one of the five names is listed as the alternate. 4-H members may only be listed on one team each year. No other substitutions may be made. For teams qualifying for the State Dog Show, the registration fee is charged for four exhibitors. The named alternate may compete in place of one of the original four team members per year Showmanship ***Showmanship training classes may be trained with all levels together, or may be split into Beginners, and experienced handlers, depending on the enrollment. The classes for showing at the fair are listed below. In showmanship classes, you will be judged on your ability to present the dog as in a dog show breed class, and your ability to answer questions about dogs and dog care. This class depends more on your performance, and less on your dog s performance. Both purebred and mixed breed dogs are welcome in this class. Novice Junior This class is for beginning handlers in their first year of showmanship (not necessarily your first year of the 4-H Dog Project) who are from 3 rd to 8 th grade. Beginning handlers who are in 9 th grade or older should enter Novice Senior. Handlers remain in this class until they have won a blue ribbon. Open Junior To be in this class, you must have won a blue ribbon in the Novice Junior class. Once you have entered this class, you will remain in it until you become a 9 th grader. When you become a 9 th grader, you move to Open Senior. Novice Senior For handlers 9 th grade and up who have never won a blue ribbon in showmanship. Open Senior To advance into this class, you must have won a blue ribbon in Novice Junior or Senior. Agility Requirements: All dogs in agility training must be at least 12 months old. All members enrolled in agility or pre-agility are expected to help with the setting up and taking down of equipment!! In order to participate in agility at the Dakota County 4-H Dog Show at County Fair, members must attend a minimum of 6 classes in agility (this is a MN state 4-H agility rule). Pre-agility (timed jumping) This class is specifically designed for all first year Dog Project members. Pre-Agility is a fun class in which your dog must jump various jumps, and down on a table for 5 seconds. It is a timed event a kind of timed obstacle course. You lose points (acquire faults) for knocking bars off of the jumps, jumping the jump with your dog, etc. The fastest time with the fewest faults is the winner. To be eligible for this class, you must have the permission of your Beginner A/B obedience instructor (who may require you to pass an obedience test), or be in the Graduate Beginner level of obedience. We require that all dogs in this class are proficient at heeling, coming, downing and staying before beginning this class. This class will begin approximately 8 weeks after your obedience class so that you can get your dog trained to do the obedience prerequisite

16 Training in this class will be motivational (treat and/or toy based only), and done on a flat buckle collar with no tags or other attachments. You will need to bring treats for your dog each week to class. Beginner Agility In order to train in the Beginner Agility class, you must have earned a score of at least 170 in any previous year of dog obedience showing (must be the same dog and handler combination). If you earned your score somewhere other than the Dakota County 4-H dog show last year, please bring a photo copy of your score sheet as proof (you may earn your score at any fun match or outside dog show, or at the Dakota County 4-H dog show). A special note for those of you who have shown your dog in a fun match at a dog training club: In the sub- Novice level only, a score of at least 140 will be accepted only if the maximum points available were 155. Equipment- you will need to have a plain buckle collar, a 6 foot long leash, and treats. You will learn to perform jumps, the pause table, A- frame, and the open tunnel. Judging is based on avoiding faults and finishing the course within 60 seconds. You must remain in this class level until you achieve a round or 5 faults or less in competition. Any dog who has earned a leg toward an agility title in any organization is ineligible for this class, and must move to a higher class. Elementary Agility This class is for anyone who achieved 5 faults or less in their Beginner agility class last year. A beginning agility student with some previous training may skip the Beginner agility class and enter this level if they wish. If your dog has been shown in agility trials and has legs toward agility titles, see an instructor about whether you should be in this level or not restrictions vary by what agility organization the title is earned under. In this class, the same competition obstacles are used as in the Beginner class, but you will be showing off leash and on a 5 tall A-frame (6 taller than in Beginner agility.) Other obstacles may be introduced in the training classes to help prepare you for the Intermediate class next year, but you will only actually compete on the Beginner obstacles at the county 4-H dog show. Intermediate Agility You must have earned 5 faults or less in competition in Elementary Agility. If you have earned legs or titles in agility trials, please see an instructor about whether you should be in the senior class or not. Four new obstacles are used in competition at this level. They are the tire, the dog walk, the broad jump, and the weave poles. Note: If you do not practice the weave poles at home, you should expect to have trouble with them in competition. A practice set of poles can be made by putting any kind of fence posts into the ground, spaced 20 inches apart, or even by using 6-10 toilet plungers stuck on the floor in your basement. 24 is the preferred distance apart. Senior Agility To advance to Senior Agility, you must have earned a score of 5 faults or less in competition in Intermediate Agility. It is approximately equivalent to AKC, USDAA, NADAC, and ASCA Novice levels. The obstacles used in this class include jumps, pause table, open tunnel, A-frame, dog walk, weave poles, tire jump, broad jump, and the teeter. NO COLLAR OR LEASH IN THIS CLASS. Advanced Agility A member MAY move to Advanced Agility after earning one score of 5 faults or less in senior agility. You MUST move to Advanced Agility if you and your dog receive 5 faults or less in three different 4-H years in senior agility. A 4-H er and dog may compete at this level indefinitely. Courses at this level will feature a faster yards per second rate than the senior level and more difficult challenges such as: tunnels under contact obstacles, adjacent obstacle entrances, call-offs and traps, more difficult approach angles, handler restrictions, weave poles, one bar jumps, and a double bar jump (spread hurdle). Refusals are faulted on contact obstacles at this class level. Jumpers Agility Classes offered Jumpers 1 - This class is for 4-H'ers enrolled in the Beginner or Elementary agility class levels. Only single jumps and tunnels are used. This course will feature mild angles of approach to all jumps. Handling challenges in this course will be slightly more difficult than in the Beginner/Elementary standard agility class. A dog with a leg toward a Novice jumper s agility title in any major agility organization is ineligible for this class level. Jumpers 2 - To enter this class, you must have received 5 faults or less in Jumpers 1. The tire, single jumps and tunnels will be used for this class. Jump approaches and handling challenges will be slightly more difficult than in Intermediate and Senior standard agility class

17 A dog that has completed a Novice jumper s agility title is ineligible for this class level. Handlers may move to Jumping 3 after one blue ribbon has been earned. Handlers must move to Jumpers 3 after three blue ribbons have been earned in Jumpers 2. Jumpers 3 - To enter this class, you must have received 5 faults or less in Jumpers 2. Double jumps, one-bar jumps, the tire, single jumps and tunnels will be used for this class. Pinwheels, serpentines, treadles and 270 degree jump approaches are all challenges you may face in this level. Rally ***Rally obedience is obedience done using signs (instead of judge s verbal commands) to indicate what the handler should do when. The signs are arranged around the ring as stations to be done. A station basically is one instruction such as right turn or slow. Occasionally a single station might include two or even three instructions (such as call your dog to sit in front of you and finish, or down your dog and walk around them). Most of the rally obedience stations can be accomplished by a 4-H Beginner student in their first year, with no special additional training needed. A few stations will need explanation from the judge during the briefing for the handler to understand what to do, but no actual additional training or skills are needed Rally is less formal than traditional obedience. Handlers may give multiple commands, talk to their dogs as needed, etc. Food is NOT allowed in the ring. Handlers may not touch their dogs to help them or pet them after crossing the start line. Second tries at a station are permitted with only a 3-point penalty for the re-try. Rally is a timed event, but time is used only to break ties in score (few if any run-offs should be needed in rally). Rally To advance a level in rally, a blue ribbon is required in the previous year. The levels suggested here for first year rally exhibitors who wish to begin at a higher class level due to previous obedience or rally training. Foundation Rally (new class level, added 2017) is for 1 st year students in the Foundation obedience class. Rally Pre-Novice is for Beginner obedience dogs. It is an on-leash class for dogs in their first or second year. Rally Novice is an appropriate level for Graduate Beginner and Novice obedience dogs to start. On leash. This class is essentially the AKC Novice rally level with a modification of the finish Rally Pre-Advanced is off-leash will require a specified direction of the finish, and includes a few of the exercises from the AKC Advanced level. 4-H ers enrolled in Graduate Novice (or Novice) obedience should have no difficulty with this class level. Rally Veterans is for dogs with physical limitations that prevent them from jumping, or who are over the age of seven (and not wanting to jump). Once a dog has been entered in veterans, they may NOT be shown in any agility classes (these are jumping classes) in 4-H, even if shown by a different 4-H member. This class includes non-jumping exercises through the advanced rally levels. Rally Advanced is off leash, and follows AKC Advanced rally rules, including jumping. Rally Excellent follows AKC Excellent rally rules, including moving stand, and backing up 3 steps in heel position. Course length Foundation Rally will be 6-8 stations, with 1-2 stationary exercises (signs that require the dog to halt/sit). Rally Pre-Novice will be 8-12 a station, with no more than 3 stationary exercises (signs requiring the dog to halt/sit). Rally Novice will be stations, with 3-5 stationary exercises. Rally Pre-Advanced will be stations, with 3-7 stationary exercises, a minimum of 3 stations from the Advanced rally list of exercises, but does not include a jump (all are included as part of the station count). Rally Advanced will be stations, with 3-7 stationary exercises, a minimum of 2 stations from the advanced rally list of exercises, in addition to one jump. Rally Excellent will be stations, with 3-7 stationary exercises, a minimum of 3 stations from the excellent rally list of exercises, and two jump stations. Rally Stations Specific requirements for each rally station will be taught as part of the obedience classes in July. The 4-H rally rules may be downloaded from the State 4-H dog project web site. The 4-H rally station definitions are the same as the AKC rally station definitions (full-color explanations can be downloaded at the State 4-H dog project website at or the AKC web site if you wish to do so )