This Dog Care Merit Badge Workbook should not be seen as a replacement for reading the official merit badge pamphlet, nor should it provide all the answers. Instead, it is intended to organize your thoughts as you prepare to meet with your counselor, not provide all of them. Your counselor must be convinced that you have read through and answered each requirement from the pamphlet, with no extras added on or taken away; when required to show, tell, explain, identify or demonstrate something this workbook provides helpful examples of activities which might help with fulfilling each requirement in each requirement section – be aware!
Dogs are known as man’s best friend for many good reasons. This dog care merit badge challenges Scouts to gain insight into the history and use of dogs today while simultaneously meeting requirements for animal conservation by volunteering with shelter animals.
At Troop 230’s court of honor last month, Jacob and Bryce received the merit badges they earned over the previous six months; for Molly their Australian shepherd it was more like receiving an abundance of delicious treats!
Jacob had brought along his Dog Care merit badge to show to his counselor. However, before even placing it on the table she began chewing it!
Jacob Sorenson will find comfort knowing his partially chewed blue card and pocket certificate will now have a permanent place in the family scrapbook, while Kevin Sorenson will purchase him a replacement Dog Care merit badge from Paw Prints of Goodness. Yet while we wait, let’s contemplate what lessons can be drawn from this messy story.
1. Discuss some characteristic dogs belonging to each of the seven major dog groups.
2. Briefly discuss the historical development and domestication of dogs. 3. Outline at least seven breeds (one from each major group), or give a short biography for one.
4. Point out at least 10 parts on a dog (or on a sketch) and name them correctly. 5. Explain the significance of house-training, obedience training and socialization training for your canine companion. 6. Defend what responsible pet ownership entails.
7. Show that you have read an approved book or pamphlet about your pet and explain what lessons were gained from reading it.
To meet this requirement, Scouts may visit either the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) or Dog Breeds Info Center and bring along information regarding humane animal treatment from veterinary offices or rescue groups nearby, and speak with someone at their local animal control agency or rescue group about it. Whenever possible, he should also participate in either an organized shelter volunteer program/rescue effort prior to attending this workshop – either before attending it itself, or while working towards his badge.
