Canine Buddies 4-H Dog Training Club

Learn more about your canine buddy with the Fox Valley Dog Training Club this spring!

Kids and dogs go to together naturally. Come learn how to care for and build a partnership through positive learning experiences and weekly lessons as you "play" your way to a behaved, trained pet. This program is based upon documented research in animal behavior and learning theory, while being fun for the child and the dog. This is also a great way to prepare for your county's 4-H Dog Show, to be held at the DuPage County Fairgrounds on June 12.

ZSuite account required for registration (see more details below). Weekly sessions begin Thursday, April 18 from 5 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. This program is for ages 8 to 18, as of Sept. 1, 2023.

Important notes: 

• All dogs must have proof of immunization to Rabies, Distemper, Parvo, Parainfluenza and a negative fecal test no older than 3 months. Please discuss other vaccinations and heartworm preventative with your veterinarian. 
• Bring a martingale style collar to fit your dog, water/bowl, lots of small soft treats, and a 6-foot leather or web leash.
• Youth should wear supportive closed shoes, and comfortable clothes that can handle dog slobber and hair. 
• The first class will be at the Kane County Extension office without dogs, and other sessions will be at the Kane County Fairgrounds (Robinson Hall). 
• Cost is $40, which includes the once-a-year enrollment of $20 and a $20 check made payable to the Fox Valley Dog Training Club to bring to the first session. If you are already a paid, enrolled member for the 2023-2024 4-H year, only the second portion is needed.

How to sign up:

• Make sure to have your ZSuite account information ready OR create a ZSuite account, and then contact 4-H Program Coordinator Lydia Nickels at lydian@illinois.edu or 630-584-6166.

Questions: Contact 4-H Program Coordinator Lydia Nickels at lydian@illinois.edu or 630-584-6166.

Space is limited. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact the event coordinator. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.