ROSEVILLE, Ill. — The 4‑H Dog Show held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, brought together talented youth from Henderson, Warren, and Knox counties for a day of impressive showmanship, obedience, rally work, and dog care demonstrations. Exhibitors highlighted the dedication, patience, and strong partnerships they’ve built with their dogs throughout the year.
University of Illinois Extension extends heartfelt thanks to the volunteers who made this event possible. This event is the culmination of hours of practice with volunteer coaches, support from parents, and guidance from club leaders who help guide these youth throughout the year. Special appreciation goes to Mary Austin, who judged Showmanship, Obedience, and Rally, and to Dr. Becca Lundeen, who evaluated the Dog Care projects. Their knowledge and dedication helped create a supportive, educational experience for every participant.
“I am so proud of the hard work that these members have put into their projects over the spring. To compete in the 4-H show, our members attend several obedience classes with their dogs to practice their skills and learn from volunteer instructors. The 4-H show is a culmination of months of hard work put in by our members and canine pairs.” Shelby Carlson, Extension Youth Development Educator, said.
Awards were presented in four categories—showmanship, obedience, rally, and dog care—each offering youth a unique way to develop skills, strengthen their bond with their dog, and deepen their understanding of responsible animal care.
Showmanship — Youth demonstrate proper grooming and handling techniques while maintaining confident posture and a positive attitude. Exhibitors use clear, consistent commands and answer questions about their dog’s breed and care.
Obedience — Participants follow the judge’s commands to showcase their dog’s responsiveness. Exercises may include heeling at different speeds, halting, sitting, and additional tasks that highlight control and discipline.
Rally — Handlers and dogs work together to navigate a course marked with signs indicating tasks such as sits, turns, or figure‑eights. Youth walk the course alone first, then guide their dog through it as a team.
Dog Care — Exhibitors research their dog’s breed and best care practices, demonstrating knowledge of nutrition, grooming, health, and behavior. Participants may include a visual display to support their project.
Those winning awards are:
Junior Showmanship
Henderson County
Champion & State Fair Delegate – Brooklyn VanWinkle
State Fair Alternate – Ellie Mae Shaner
Warren County
Champion & State Fair Delegate – Rilynn Evans
Knox County
Champion & State Fair Delegate – Aubree Inness
State Fair Alternate – Waylon Asbury
Senior Showmanship
Knox County
Champion & State Fair Delegate – Addalyn Cain
Obedience
Beginner Novice 1
Henderson Co. Champion – Brooklyn VanWinkle
Knox Co. Champion – Waylon Asbury
Beginner Novice 2
Henderson Co. Champion – Ellie Mae Shaner
Warren Co. Champion – Rilynn Evans
Knox Co. Champion – Aubree Inness
Preferred Novice
Knox Co. Champion – Addalyn Cain
Rally
Intermediate
Knox Co. Champion – Aubree Inness
Novice
Henderson Co. Champion – Ellie Mae Shaner
Warren Co. Champion – Rilynn Evans
Knox Co. Champion – Waylon Asbury
Additional Awards
Dog Care Champion
Aubree Inness
Overall Dog Champion
Waylon Asbury
Extension staff commend all exhibitors for their sportsmanship, dedication, and enthusiasm. Events like this highlight the valuable life skills 4‑H fosters—responsibility, confidence, and compassion.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.