 Dog Care
This Merit Badge requires 1 session to complete.
The Pathways to Eagle preparation work items for the Dog Care merit badge are: 4, 5, 8
- Items in RED - MUST be completed before the session starts to make it possible to complete the merit badge at Pathways to Eagle. Bring proof of completion (item, written work, note, photo, etc.)
- Items in GREEN - Can be completed before the session starts or done during merit badge session.
- Items in BLACK - MUST be ready to demonstrate your knowledge of these requirements during the merit badge session.
Scouts are strongly encouraged to use a Merit Badge worksheet to show that they have done the preparation work for the merit badge.
Download the workbook for the
Dog Care Merit Badge
in Adobe PDF format from the U.S. Scouting Service Project website.
Scouts MUST be able to discuss any items completed as preparation works or as written work.
Note: Some requirements contain items that fall into more that one category and are listed as the higher category.
| a. |
Briefly discuss the historical origin and domestication of the dog. |
| b. |
Describe some common characteristics of the dogs that make up each of the seven major dog groups. |
| c. |
Tell some specific characteristics of seven breeds of dogs (one from each major group), or give a short history of one breed. |
2. |
Point out on a dog (or on a sketch) at least 10 body parts. Give the correct name of each. |
| a. |
Explain the importance of house-training, obedience training, and socialization training for your dog. |
| b. |
Explain what "responsible pet ownership" means. |
| c. |
Explain what issues (including temperament) must be considered when deciding on what breed of dog to get as a family pet. |
4. |
For two months, keep and care for your dog.
Maintain a log of your activities during this
period that includes these items: feeding
schedule, types of food used, amount fed,
exercise periods, training schedule, a weekly
body weight record, grooming and bathing
schedules, veterinary care, if necessary, and
costs. Also include a brief description of the
type of housing/shelter arrangements you have
for your dog. |
5. |
Explain the correct way to obedience train a dog
and what equipment you would need. Show with your
dog any three of these commands: "come," "sit,"
"down," "heel," "stay," "fetch" or "get it", and
"drop it." |
| a. |
Discuss the proper vaccination schedule for a dog in your area from puppyhood through adulthood. |
| b. |
Discuss the control methods for preventing fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites (worms) for a dog in your area from puppyhood to adulthood. |
| c. |
Explain the importance of dental care and tooth brushing to your pet's health. |
| d. |
Discuss the benefits of grooming your dog's coat and nails on a regular basis. |
| e. |
Discuss with your counselor any seasonal conditions (like hot summers, cold winters, or extreme humidity) where you live that need to be considered for your dog. |
| f. |
Discuss with your counselor the considerations and
advantages of spaying or neutering your dog. |
| a. |
Explain the precautions to take in handling a hurt dog. |
| b. |
Show how to put on an emergency muzzle. |
| c. |
Explain how to treat wounds. Explain first aid for a dog bite. |
| d. |
Show how to put on a simple dressing and bandage the foot, body, or head of your dog. |
| e. |
Explain what to do if a dog is hit by a car. |
| f. |
List the things needed in every dog owner's first-aid kit. |
| g. |
Tell the dangers of home treatment of a serious ailment. |
| h. |
Briefly discuss the cause and method of spread, the signs and symptoms and the methods of prevention of rabies, parvovirus, distemper, and heartworms in dogs. |
8. |
Visit a veterinary hospital or an animal shelter and give a report about your visit to your counselor. |
9. |
Know the laws and ordinances involving dogs that are in force in your community. |
10. |
Learn about three career opportunities for working
with dogs. Pick one and find out about the
education, training, and experience required for
this career, and discuss this with your counselor.
Tell why this profession interests you. |
|
The requirements listed on this web site are believed to be correct.
The official requirements can be found in the current edition of
"Boy Scout Requirements Book 2024"
Download the workbook for the
Dog Care Merit Badge
in Adobe PDF format from, The U.S. Scouting Service Project website.
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