2026 Bark Buddies K-9 Dog Obedience Training

Bark Buddies K-9 Dog Obedience training is for 4-H's 3rd grade and up & their dogs to develop basic obedience and showmanship skills.
About this Event

Bark Buddies K-9 Dog Obedience Training course is designed for young members (third grade and up) to work with their dogs on basic obedience and showmanship.

Training with dogs will begin June 22, and run through September 15, taking place every Tuesday (EXCEPT July 28) from 6:00–7:00 PM at the Oconee County Extension Office. Youth MUST be * and the $25 class fee prior to training with dogs.

note about payment - to pay by cash/check in the office, choose the "already paid" ticket option and let us know your payment plan

Youth who complete the training will be skilled dog handlers, and eligible to complete in the dog showmanship competition at the Foothills Fair (fair dates September 22-26, 2026). This is not required, but is deeply rewarding! Youth are also invited to make posters about their experiences working with dogs to enter in the informational poster contest.

Schedule:

• June 18, Bark Buddies Club Meeting & Training Information Session
• Tuesdays June 22-July 21, Regular obedience training sessions
• July 28 NO MEETING
• Poster Exhibit Workshop date TBD
• August 4 - Sept 1, Regular sessions
• September 8 & 15: Focused training sessions to prepare youth who have completed the summer Bark Buddies training, and are now skilled dog handlers, for competition in the dog showmanship at the Foothills Fair (fair dates September 22-26, 2026).
• Foothills Fair Entry Forms and Poster Exhibits due September 16! (Forms available on Foothills website or by emailing Oconee 4-H)

This training, the show, and ongoing 4-H K-9 clubs are great opportunities for young handlers to build confidence, bond with their pets, and become part of a meaningful, service-driven group.

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Refund statement: Full payment is due upon attendance (you may pay at the door with prior arrangements). No refunds will be issued after participation in the event has started.

*Membership requirement: For safety & liability reasons, current 4-H membership in is required for participation in this event. Membership is $15 for Sept 1 - August 31, renewal is annual. Youth who renew in September receive a free T-shirt. Assistance in registering can be provided at your first meeting. Oconee County will waive an annual youth membership fee for every adult who registers as a volunteer. Reach out to Lil for information.

Custodial Care: Please note that this event and its coordinators do not assume custodial care of youth in attendance. Adults chaperone must be present for the supervision of youth participants.

Civil Rights Statement