Case study of perceived positive youth development inputs and outcomes in 4-H dog programs as identified by 4-H members, parents, leaders and agents

There is a recognized need for additional research that produces empirical data on positive youth development (PYD) frameworks, as well as PYD impacts and roles amongst human-animal interactions (HAI) and youth. This study used inputs and outcomes from the 4-H Formula for Success to identify and describe components of the 4-H dog program within one state as case studies. Inputs included skill-building, meaningful leadership, and long-term relationships with caring adults. Outcomes included the 5 C's: caring, character, confidence, connection and competence. Three counties (cases) were identified, and participants were interviewed about their 4-H dog program experiences. 4-H youth, parents, volunteers and agents were included. A total of 19 interviews were transcribed and coded for themes that fit within the 4-H Formula for Success within the context of each case. Findings indicate a strong presence of inputs that are specific to dog programming, as well as some outcomes and emergent themes, including accessibility, motivation to join and COVID implications. Dog industry professionals greatly contributed to the skill-building and meaningful leadership opportunities for 4-H youth. Connection and Competence were the most frequently coded outcomes across the cases. Participants described the 4-H dog program as accessible due to cost, small size and simple housing requirements, compared to livestock or equine projects. A shared interest in dogs was the primary motivation to join 4-H dog clubs and led to strong connections or bonds between members. Limitations of this study are related to a low participant pool in one case, and recall accuracy and cognitive ability of 4-H youth to recognize and name their perceived outcomes. Recommendations for practice are included for 4-H agents and 4-H volunteers to start, promote or strengthen 4-H dog programs in any location by being intentional when recruiting 4-H volunteers, and planning educational programming. This program can be promoted as more accessible compared to large animal science 4-H programs such as livestock or equine based on data provided by participants in all three cases within diverse contexts. There are several recommendations for further research beyond this study including a longitudinal continuation of this model, replicating this study in other states to examine other 4-H dog programs, or replicating this study for other 4-H program areas.