Published on September 2, 2026 3:37 pm
Last Updated on September 2, 2026 3:37 pm
4-H members from across the state recently demonstrated their skills during the Illinois 4-H Dog Show, held Aug. 22 at the Interstate Center in Bloomington. The show is open to 4-H members who are enrolled in the Dog project and have received a qualifying score at their local 4-H exhibition. An Effingham County 4-Her was among the winners.
The Illinois State 4-H Dog Show uses the American Kennel Club regulations as a guideline. Participants compete in Obedience, Showmanship, and Rally Obedience categories.
Congratulations to Lillian Huber, who received the Showmanship Senior Award.
“These 4-H members have spent months or even years working with their dog to reach this level,” said Kathy Book, 4-H Youth Development educator and State Dog Show coordinator. “It’s exciting to see all their hard work pay off as they demonstrate their skills in the show ring.”
In keeping with 4-H’s commitment to teaching youth about ethical and humane treatment of animals, all dog/handler teams must have earned the Canine Good Citizen Certification together. All exhibitors must also have completed the Quality Assurance and Ethics Certification and are expected to be familiar with and abide by both the principles of that certification and the Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act.
For the 2026 4-H Dog Show, the show participation fee was waived, and contest expenses were covered by the Illinois 4-H Foundation.
