Want to show off your pet’s skills and tricks?
Your pet—your dog or cat or bird or even your turtle!—could be the perfect 4-H project for you. You may think you know all there is to know about Fido or Fluffy, but through 4-H, you could learn so much more.
Or how about raising a puppy to become a Leader Dog or a special friend and companion for someone with a disability? It might hurt to give away an animal you’ve worked with so hard, but just imagine how good you’ll feel inside knowing how much you’ve enriched someone else’s life!
Resource
The Michigan 4-H State Companion Animal Committee encourages leaders and members to download this complete overview of the 4-H Dog Program Manual from the American Kennel Club (AKC). This comprehensive manual is designed as a facilitator guide for leaders and 4-H members. It is well written, and was a project of Florida 4-H with the cooperation of the AKC.
State 4-H Dog Show
2025 Michigan State 4-H Dog Show Catalog
Contact
For more information on how to get involved as a youth or volunteer, contact your county MSU Extension office.
News
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4-H livestock showmanship guides now available
Published on May 14, 2026
Detailed guides about beef, sheep, swine and goat showmanship are now available through Michigan 4-H. -
Growing fruits and vegetables for your dog
Published on February 9, 2026
When planning your garden, don’t forget about your pooch. Dogs love fresh vegetables, too. -
Dogscaping: Landscaping for you and your dog
Published on February 9, 2026
What exactly is dogscaping? Quite simply, it is landscaping for your dog’s safety and enjoyment. -
Checklist to prepare 4-H animal project facilities for winter weather
Published on November 25, 2025
Ten items to check for and do before winter weather arrives when you have or are getting 4-H animal projects. -
Steps to developing a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship
Published on September 18, 2025
Be prepared for the unexpected when raising animals by developing a VCPR.