Youth Dog Programs

Youth Dog Programs

Woofermutt Dog Training is a strong advocate of youth becoming involved with their dogs. In order to help students and their parents Woofermutt offers "at cost" dog training classes for youth. The experience a child gets when they train their dog, is an experience that will stay with them for a lifetime. We think a young person who has learned positive dog training methods with an animal will be less likely to ever become the class bully. Working and teaching a dog has many good side effects. Dog training teaches compassion, patience, perseverence, sportsmanship just to name a few. If you are ever interested in classes for your children, owner Cindy Still is happy to set up a dog training class for you that best fits your schedule. The only requirement is there must be at least 3 dogs and handlers for the class to be a go.

AKC has been growing its Juniors in Leaps and Bounds Follow this link and learn about all the opportunities for youth within the AKC realm. https://www.akc.org/sports/juniors/

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UKC ( United Kennel Club) also offers events and programs geared towards the Junior. UKC is a bit smaller than the AKC realm however many like this venue. It is another place youth are welcomed with their dogs. Go here to learn more regarding this program: https://www.ukcdogs.com/junior-program

Here is more information regarding juniors and how to register with UKC. https://www.ukcdogs.com/junior-program-forms-rules

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Locally right here in the Pikes Peak Region our Humane Society offers some youth experiences. Including tours and a couple of summer camp programs. Visit here for info on their programs: https://www.hsppr.org/springs/humane-education-youth-groups

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Another potential program you may want to look into is , dare I say it? 4-H. This program is offered at the National, State, then County levels. To get a peek at the 4-H dog project look here: https://4-h.org/parents/curriculum/dog/ At this time there doesn't appear to be any standardized program across the country. Each state, then county seems to make up their personal version of the 4-H Dog Project. If interested contact your local county extension office for more information.

WHAT KIND OF DOG STUFF CAN A KID PARTICIPATE IN YOU ASK?

Here is a taste of some dog events you might consider:

  • Drill Team and Parades

  • Trick Dog Titles

AKC (American Kennel Club) is a great place to get started with your dog. They have a great youth program and offer some good scholarships. You don't have to own a fancy "AKC" Breed dog to participate in many of the AKC venues. Most performance events (Rally, Obedience, Agility) will allow mixed breed entries. The only requirement is the dog be registered with AKC Canine Partners. You can find more info regarding that program

here: https://www.akc.org/register/information/canine-partners/why-join-2/

Here are some youth dog programs you may want to check out.

  • Trail Dog (AKC Fit Dog)

  • Canine Good Citizen for Dogs

  • Dog Agility

  • Dog Obedience Rally

  • Dog Showmanship

  • Dog Obedience

Woofermutt offers a combination class group for youth. Youth Class Recommendations: Click Here