NORWICH — During this years’ Chenango County 4-H Dog Obedience Program, 4-H youth and their dogs began lessons together in the hands-on dog training, skill building program, while also learning responsible pet ownership.

The program is open to all enrolled Chenango County 4-H members ages five through 18, based on their age as of January 1.

The next training session will be held at 6 p.m., Friday, July 31, at the North Norwich Park.

“4-H participants bring their own dogs and work through a series of lessons designed to strengthen the bond between handler and dog, while preparing interested youth for future dog shows and competitions,” said 4-H Youth Development Educator Micaela Meseck.

Meseck said to participate, dogs must be current on their rabies vaccination, and all canine participants must have the required paperwork on file with the Chenango County 4-H Office, including a copy of their rabies certificate.

“Dogs must also be safely manageable by the youth handler and non-aggressive,” she added. “We have been fortunate that all of our youth-dog teams have been excellent participants and have worked well throughout the program.”

The program welcomes dogs of all experience levels, from young puppies just beginning their training journey to older, more experienced dogs.

“Whether participants are working with a young puppy or a seasoned dog, each training session provides new opportunities to learn, build confidence, and have fun,” said Meseck.

She said throughout the program, youth learn obedience commands, grooming techniques, handling skills, and showmanship.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of the program is watching both the youth and their dogs gain confidence and improve their focus from week to week,” Meseck said.

“We are incredibly proud of the dedication shown by both our youth participants and their canine companions,” she said. “It has been exciting to watch the teams grow over the course of the program.”

So far, Meseck noted youth and their dogs have worked on foundational obedience skills including heeling, sitting, laying down, sit-and-stay, and grooming.

The youth are also learning handling skills for the show ring including proper ring movement and pacing, which side a dog should be shown on, and how to correctly stack or set up a dog for judging.

Meseck said the program is supported by two dedicated volunteers, Heather Lathrop and Katy Kemmeren who have generously shared their knowledge and experience.

“Their guidance has been invaluable in helping participants develop both training and showmanship skills,” she added.

According to Meseck, training helps create a stronger relationship between a dog and owner by improving communication, trust, and understanding.

Basic obedience skills make dogs more manageable and more enjoyable companions.

“For youth, dog training also teaches important life skills such as patience, responsibility, consistency, problem-solving, and confidence,” said Meseck.

As youth progress, they learn that successful dog training comes from teamwork, practice, and positive reinforcement.

She said every dog learns at its own pace, depending on factors such as age, temperament, previous training, and how consistently skills are practiced at home.

Many dogs can begin learning basic commands such as sit, heel, and stay within a few training sessions, but developing reliability and consistency often takes several weeks or months of regular practice.

She noted, like any skill, repetition and patience are key to long-term success.

Meseck said they are grateful to their volunteers, Heather Lathrop and Katy Kemmeren and said their time and expertise are invaluable. She said they look forward to seeing the continued progress of the youth and their dogs throughout the remainder of the season.

For additional information on the 4-H Dog training program, contact Micaela Meseck at mm3589@cornell.edu.