Youth can participate in Paws 4 Kids 4 Paws programs to learn about dogs and develop skills. They will learn to assess dog temperament and behavior, and train dogs for various roles. All programs are interactive sessions with experienced program leaders and fun, hands-on lessons with our pre-screened dogs. Some programs serving as a starting point and others building on previous knowledge and skills.
Beginner Program Series
Give your child the ultimate dog-loving experience with our 3-part series designed to grow skills, confidence, and compassion—one paw at a time! Over several weeks (typically 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the schedule), each part expands on the last one and offers hands-on learning with trained dogs in a safe, supportive environment. Youth learn both dog skills and life skills together.
Enroll in the full series for the ultimate canine education!
Part 1 - Learn to Speak Dog!
Kids learn the basics of dog safety, behavior assessment, communication, and teaching simple behaviors like sit, stay, and come — all through fun, hands-on lessons with our trained dogs. Perfect for beginner dog lovers, this program builds confidence, responsibility, and real-life skills in a safe, supportive environment.
Enroll to start a tail-wagging good time!
Part 2 - Dog Stewardship
Building on Part 1 (prerequisite), this session dives deeper into expanded behaviors, responsible dog care, and confident handling techniques. From
teaching new tricks to mastering responsible dog care, this hands-on experience is perfect for kids who want to take an active role with pets.
Level Up on Skills & Care for your love for dogs!
Part 3 - Active Dogs, Engaged Minds
Get ready for action-packed fun! Kids explore dog
sports, brain games, nose work, and structured play using various equipment—keeping
dogs active and mentally sharp and kids engaged and learning. (Prerequisite: Part 2)
Let your child become a dog-savvy superstar!
Intermediate Series - Dog Training Apprentice
Ready to take the lead? This intermediate-level program is designed for youth who have completed Parts 1–3 and are eager to deepen their dog-handling
and training skills. They choose their path! This ongoing program is tailored to each participant’s skill level and interests, offering a personalized path toward becoming a confident, capable dog trainer. They earn badges, pins, and certificates along the way for the skills and techniques they choose.
Over a series of progressive, hands-on sessions, participants will work with dogs provided by Paws 4 Kids 4 Paws (no personal dogs allowed) to learn
and apply a variety of training techniques and behaviors. Each session builds on the last, ensuring a strong foundation and steady growth.
Prerequisite: Completion of Parts 1–3 (Canine Communicator Badge).
Continue your journey in canine education!
One-Time Events
Crafting For Canines
Join us to practice making toys and games/puzzles for dogs using mostly free/recycled materials. We supply the materials and instructions, as well as demonstrate how to make the enrichment items. Toys/puzzles you make are donated to a shelter or rescue partner.
Host an Event
If you have a venue and would like us to hold an event there or hold one of our events within your larger event, reach out to us here.
Leader Training Programs
Interested in becoming a handler/trainer for our events? We also run programs to develop the trainers / handlers who will be involved. The purpose of such programs will be to educate handlers on how to work with "square peg" kids, qualify handlers to lead programs, and improve how the handlers serve their own communities.
We welcome youth leaders in addition to adults! Youth who have completed our other series may advance to career-path type learning too.
Past Events
Take a look at some of our past event photos to get a glimpse into the fun activities during our programs.
