Puppy Selection

IN THIS SECTION: SELECTION CONSIDERATIONS – BREEDS – BREED CHARACTERISTICS – TEMPERAMENT – BREEDER SELECTION

These Australian Labradoodle puppies are all absolutely adorable! It is HIGHLY probable that ONE of these cuties MAY pass through prospect training for service dog work. There is a great deal of planning that takes place to select a dam and sire that MAY produce a prospect puppy. Every puppy in the litter should begin socialization with the Puppy Culture environment. All of the pups should have begun socialization skills with Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) starting at the age of THREE DAYS! It is important to understand that it is possible to NOT select a puppy at all.

Selection Considerations

Selecting the right puppy for service dog training is a crucial step in ensuring the success of the eventual service dog. When considering which puppy to choose, there are several important factors to take into account.

Socialization is key for service dog prospects. Expose the puppy to a wide range of experiences, people, and environments from an early age. This helps them develop the necessary social skills and adaptability required for service work.

Consider the breed carefully. While any breed can potentially be a service dog, certain breeds are more commonly chosen due to their temperament and suitability for specific tasks. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Poodles, other Poodle cross breeds, and German Shepherds are often favored for service dog training for their breed characteristics, but individual temperament should always be the primary consideration. You must work as a team, your personalities together is a large factor toward your success!

Finally, it’s essential to work with a reputable breeder, we have a list of breeders that we have recognized as Breeders of Excellence for their commitment to strong service pedigrees, early socialization, and the characteristics of each puppy in each litter.

When considering adopting from a shelter or rescue organization find one that is working with a training organization, and that your prospect has been evaluated, socialization has been tested, and a health record is available. We are working toward collaborating with rescue organizations across Texas.

Genetics

A dog’s genetic makeup can greatly influence its suitability for service work. When selecting a puppy it’s essential to consider their breed, temperament, health, and genetic predispositions.

Breed Characteristics

Selecting the right breed for service dog training is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the success of the dog in its role. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, as each individual dog’s temperament plays a vital role, certain breeds are commonly chosen for service work due to their known temperamental traits and physical characteristics. Contact us about our Evaluation Service . Here are some considerations when selecting a breed for service dog training:

1. Temperament: The breed’s temperament is a primary factor. Service dogs need to be calm, patient, and well-mannered. They should be eager to please, trainable, and not easily agitated. Breeds known for these traits include Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, other Poodle cross breeds, and German Shepherds.

2. Size: The size of the breed should match the specific needs of the handler. Larger breeds like German Shepherds are suitable for tasks that require physical assistance, while smaller breeds like Poodles or Cocker Spaniels may be better for mobility assistance or medical alert roles. Consider the specific tasks the service dog will be trained for. For example, if the dog needs to provide mobility assistance, a larger and sturdy breed may be necessary. If the dog will work as a medical alert dog, a breed with a keen sense of smell like a Beagle or a Labrador Retriever may be suitable.

3. Energy Level: Consider the energy level of the breed. Some service dogs need to be highly active, such as guide dogs for the visually impaired, while others, like psychiatric service dogs, may need to be more calm and collected. Breeds like Border Collies are high-energy, while Basset Hounds are generally lower-energy.

4. Allergies: Some individuals may have allergies to dog dander. In such cases, hypoallergenic breeds like Poodles or Bichon Frises are often chosen for service work.

5. Trainability: The ease of training varies between breeds. Breeds with high trainability and intelligence, such as Border Collies, Poodles, and Labrador Retrievers, are often preferred for service dog roles.

7. Health and Longevity: Ensure that the chosen breed is generally healthy and has a longer lifespan. This is important for the long-term commitment required for service dog training.

8. Breed’s Reputation: Research the breed’s reputation for service work. Some breeds have a long history of excelling in specific roles, and this knowledge can be valuable when making a decision.

9. Breeders and Rescue Organizations: Whether you choose to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a rescue organization, ensure that you work with reputable sources that prioritize the health and temperament of the dogs.

Ultimately, while breed characteristics can provide guidance, individual temperament and the dog’s suitability for the specific handler’s needs are paramount. It’s essential to work with experienced trainers and evaluators who can help match the right dog, regardless of breed, with the right person and task.

Temperament

Evaluating a puppy’s temperament for service dog training is a critical process that involves assessing various traits and behaviors to ensure the dog is suitable for the demanding role of a service dog. Here are some key aspects to consider when evaluating a puppy’s temperament:

1. Social Behavior: Observe how the puppy interacts with people and other dogs. A service dog should be friendly and well-mannered. Look for signs of confidence, a willingness to approach and interact with strangers, and an absence of aggression or excessive fearfulness.
2. Adaptability: Service dogs often encounter new environments and situations. A good candidate should be adaptable and comfortable in various settings, from busy city streets to quiet rural areas. They should not be easily startled or agitated by common noises or distractions.
3. Stress Tolerance: Assess the puppy’s ability to handle stress and unexpected situations. Expose them to mild stressors, such as loud noises or novel objects, and observe their reactions. A service dog should remain calm and focused under pressure.
4. Trainability: Look for a puppy that is eager to learn and responds positively to training. They should be motivated by praise, treats, or toys and display good problem-solving skills. A trainable puppy is more likely to excel in the rigorous training required for service work.
5. Energy Level: Consider the energy level of the puppy. While service dogs need to be active and alert, they should not be overly hyperactive or easily distracted. Strike a balance between energy and the ability to remain calm and focused when needed.
6. Independence vs. Bonding: Assess the puppy’s tendency to bond with humans. Service dogs need to form a strong bond with their handlers but should also be capable of working independently when necessary.
7. Sensory Sensitivity: Check how the puppy responds to sensory stimuli such as touch, sight, and sound. Service dogs must be comfortable with various types of touch and should not be overly sensitive to visual or auditory stimuli.
8. Aggressiveness: Ensure that the puppy does not display any signs of aggression towards people or other animals. Aggression is a disqualifying factor for service dogs.

It’s important to note that evaluating a puppy’s temperament is not a one-time assessment but an ongoing process. Additionally, we can provide valuable insights and guidance.

In conclusion, selecting a puppy with the right temperament for service dog training involves assessing their social behavior, adaptability, stress tolerance, trainability, energy level, independence, sensory sensitivity, and aggression. It’s a meticulous process that helps ensure that the chosen puppy has the potential to become a reliable and effective service dog.

Breeds

Several breeds of dogs are commonly used for service dog work due to their temperamental traits, intelligence, trainability, and physical characteristics. These breeds are chosen for a variety of service roles, including guide dogs for the visually impaired, hearing dogs for the deaf or hard of hearing, mobility assistance dogs, psychiatric service dogs, and medical alert dogs. Here are some of the breeds commonly used for service dog work:

1. Labrador Retriever: Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular choices for service dogs. They are known for their friendly and adaptable nature, high trainability, and willingness to work. They excel in roles such as guide dogs and medical alert dogs.
2. Golden Retriever: Golden Retrievers share many qualities with Labrador Retrievers, including their friendly disposition, intelligence, and trainability. They are often used as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and emotional support dogs.
3. German Shepherd: German Shepherds are highly intelligent and versatile. They are often selected for roles that require physical assistance, such as mobility assistance dogs. They are also used in search and rescue and law enforcement work.
4. Poodle: Poodles come in standard, miniature, and toy sizes and are known for their hypoallergenic coat. They are highly intelligent and make excellent choices for various service roles, including guide dogs and medical alert dogs.
5. Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, Poodle Cross Breeds: Labradoodles and Goldendoodles, which are crosses between Labrador Retrievers or Golden Retrievers and Poodles, have gained popularity for service dog work due to their desirable traits. These crossbreeds often inherit the intelligence, trainability, and hypoallergenic qualities of Poodles while maintaining the friendly and social nature of Labrador Retrievers or Golden Retrievers.
6. Border Collie: Border Collies are extremely intelligent and excel in tasks that require problem-solving and quick learning. They are often chosen for psychiatric service roles and can assist with tasks like grounding and interruption of self-harming behaviors.
7. Boxer: Boxers are strong and loyal dogs known for their protective instincts. They can be trained as mobility assistance dogs and are used to help individuals with physical disabilities.
8. Great Dane: Great Danes are large and powerful dogs, making them suitable for mobility assistance work. Despite their size, they are typically gentle and friendly.
9. Doberman Pinscher: Dobermans are intelligent, alert, and highly trainable. They are often selected for roles in which they provide protection and assistance to individuals with disabilities.
10. Miniature Schnauzer: Miniature Schnauzers are small hypoallergenic dogs known for their intelligence and adaptability. They are sometimes used as hearing dogs or medical alert dogs.
11. American Staffordshire Terrier: These strong and loyal dogs can be trained as psychiatric service dogs and can provide emotional support and assistance to individuals with mental health conditions.

It’s important to note that while these breeds are commonly used for service work, individual temperament and suitability for the specific task are more important than breed alone. Each dog should undergo thorough temperament assessments and training to ensure they are a good match for the intended role and handler. Additionally, many successful service dogs come from rescue organizations, demonstrating that a dog’s potential for service work is not limited to specific breeds.

Breeder Selection

Finding the right breeder for a service dog prospect is a crucial step in ensuring the success of the service dog partnership. Take your time to research and (contact)/FaceTime/visit breeders, ask questions, and carefully consider the factors mentioned below. It’s important to prioritize the dog’s health, temperament, and suitability for service work to ensure a harmonious and effective working relationship.

Here are some key aspects to look for in a breeder:

1. Health Testing: A reputable breeder should conduct comprehensive health tests on their breeding dogs to screen for genetic disorders and ensure the puppies have a good chance of being healthy. They should be willing to share these test results with you. Common tests may include hip and elbow evaluations, eye exams, and genetic screening for breed-specific issues.

2. Temperament and Behavior: Service dogs need to have stable and trainable temperaments. Look for a breeder who focuses on breeding dogs with the right temperament for service work. Discussing the parent dogs can give you insight into their behavior and temperament. Be patient if there is not a current litter that meets your needs.

3. Socialization: Puppies should be exposed to various social situations and environments early in life. A good breeder will engage in early socialization to help puppies adapt to different people, places, and stimuli, which is crucial for service dogs. It is a REQUIREMENT of our Breeders of Excellence Program that the puppies are raised in the Puppy Culture Environment.

4. Training and Exposure: Some breeders start basic training with their puppies, such as basic obedience commands and exposure to common service dog tasks. This early training can be a valuable foundation. (usually “come” and “get it” are first) Make training PLAY!

5. Bloodline and Pedigree: Understanding the lineage of the puppies can provide insights into their potential abilities and traits. Look for breeders who can provide information about the pedigree of their dogs.

6. References and Reviews: Seek recommendations from previous SERVICE DOG clients and read reviews about the breeder. Positive testimonials from others who have obtained service dog prospects from them can be a good indicator of their reliability.

7. Ethical Practices: Ensure that the breeder follows ethical breeding practices. This includes not overbreeding dogs, providing proper care for the animals, and being transparent about their breeding program.

8. Support and Guarantees: Reputable breeders offer support to puppy buyers and may provide guarantees for the health and temperament of the dog. Make sure you understand the breeder’s policies in case any issues arise. MAKE SURE THE BREEDER WILL ASSIST IN REHOMING IF NECESSARY, OR WILL TRADE OUT FOR ANOTHER PUPPY.

9. Visit the Breeding Facility: Whenever possible, visit the breeder’s facility in person to see the conditions in which the dogs are raised. This will also give you an opportunity to ask questions and observe the environment.

10. Compatibility: Discuss your specific needs with the breeder to ensure the puppy’s traits align with the requirements of a service dog. Different service roles may require different characteristics, so it’s important to communicate your expectations.

If you are selecting a puppy from a breeder that has not been evaluated and recognized by us: We will evaluate both already selected and adoption pending puppies. This evaluation can be done online or in person depending on location. (budget $500.00 – $1,000.00) CONTACT US for additional information.

Puppy Culture

The Puppy Culture environment is designed to provide puppies with a rich and varied set of experiences during their early developmental stages. The program aims to produce well-adjusted, confident, and trainable dogs that are better equipped to handle the challenges of life as a service dog. Puppy Culture is a comprehensive puppy rearing and socialization program developed by Jane Killion, a dog trainer and breeder. It focuses on creating an enriched environment for puppies from birth to 12 weeks of age, which is a critical period for their development. Here’s a closer look at what the Puppy Culture environment entails:

1. Early Neurological Stimulation: Puppy Culture includes early neurological stimulation exercises, sometimes referred to as the “Bio Sensor” program. These exercises involve gentle handling, thermal stimulation, and other activities designed to stimulate a puppy’s neurological system. The goal is to promote improved stress tolerance, better cardiovascular performance, and greater resistance to disease.

2. Socialization: Socialization is a key component of Puppy Culture. Puppies are exposed to a wide variety of people, sounds, sights, and experiences during their critical developmental period. This helps them become well-adjusted and confident adults. Socialization includes interactions with different people, including children, and exposure to various environments.

3. Positive Reinforcement Training: Puppy Culture advocates for positive reinforcement-based training methods. Puppies are taught basic obedience commands through reward-based training techniques. This approach helps create a positive association with learning and builds a strong foundation for future training.

4. Problem-Solving and Confidence Building: Puppies are presented with age-appropriate challenges to encourage problem-solving and build confidence. This might include introducing them to puzzle toys, agility equipment, and novel environments that require them to navigate obstacles.

5. Crate Training and Potty Training: Crate training and potty training are important aspects of the program. Puppies are gradually introduced to crates and learn to associate them with safety and comfort. They are also taught proper elimination habits.

6. Handling and Grooming: Puppies are regularly handled and gently groomed to help them become accustomed to human touch and various grooming procedures. This is especially important for breeds that require regular grooming as adults.

7. Enrichment: Enrichment activities are an integral part of Puppy Culture. These activities stimulate the puppies mentally and physically, helping to prevent boredom and encourage healthy development. Enrichment can include puzzle toys, playtime with other dogs, and exposure to different textures and surfaces.

8. Confidence Building Exercises: Puppies are exposed to a variety of novel objects, surfaces, and experiences to build their confidence and reduce fear or anxiety. This helps them become more adaptable and less likely to react fearfully to new situations as they grow.

9. Obedience Training: Basic obedience training is introduced in a positive and progressive manner. Puppies learn important commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” using positive reinforcement techniques.

10. Environmental Exposure: Puppies are gradually exposed to a wide range of environments, both indoors and outdoors (confined until fully vaccinated). This helps them become adaptable and less likely to develop phobias or anxieties related to novel situations.

Skilled Companions

It is an absolutely horrible feeling to realize, that the puppy of juvenile that you have spent countless hours working with, is not going to pass through prospect or service dog in training (SDIT). We realize that there has also been costs involved. With this in mind, we are available to assist with the rehoming process through our Skilled Companions Program. CONTACT US for additional information.

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Shelter/Rescue Selection

This program is under development. Please CONTACT US for specific information.

IN THIS SECTION: REMOTE SUPERVISION – LEVELS OF TRAINING – CONFIRMATION – SOCIALIZATION/BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION – SPECIALIZED GROUP CLASSES – PUBLIC ACCESS MEETUPS – WEBINARS & ONLINE EVENTS – pACT RETIREMENT TRAINING – SERVICE DOGS ON THE JOB

Remote (online) Supervision

Remote Learning for Service Dog Handlers:

1. Online Classes: We offer online classes and webinars to assist individuals who are interested in training their own service partner.
2. Training Manuals and Videos: We continue to develop training manuals and instructional videos as an effective way to guide your training through all stages of training of your service dog.

Virtual Supervision: Affiliated trainers offer virtual supervision sessions through video conferencing platforms, trainers can observe your progress, provide feedback, and offer guidance on training techniques.

Levels of Training Overview – Class Registration- Test Out- Public Access & Confirmation

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Once a puppy is selected, the puppy then enters our program as a Level 1 Prospect. This level of training and evaluation may take place through Board & Train with one of our specially trained puppy raisers, or at home with online or in-person bi-weekly training supervision and evaluation. This level includes potty and crate training, with socialization activities. (Remember, do not take your puppy into public situations until all shots are completed) The length of this phase varies greatly from setting to setting. The average age at completion is 4-6 months. AKC Puppy S.T.A.R. Title Accepted

Budget $280 for Level 1 Training in 8 weeks (May be completed in 4 weeks)

We also provide an evaluation only option. This evaluation is done online.

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A Level 2 Prospect has completed all puppy shots and is cleared for public access training. This level continues to focus on the foundations of Socialization and Basic Obedience. The accomplishment of this level is only possible if the puppy and their handler are the correct match. Completion of this level has one of the most important and comprehensive evaluations that can be made. This level usually lasts for 6-8 months. The cost varies greatly, depending on if board & train, in person, or online training.

The average cost is $xxxxxxx

We also provide an evaluation only option. This evaluation is done online.

Prospect LEVEL evaluation only option. This evaluation is done online.

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Level 3 Service Dog in Training (SDIT1) It is common for a dog about the age of two years old to be at this level of training. Intermediate obedience and socialization should be begun before moving forward with training. It is very important to move at the dog’s pace, people have a tendency to want to push or rush through this level. The base 3 service dog tasks should at least be started. There are distractions everywhere you go.

Socializing around emergency personnel and having them interact appropriately with noise and distractions keeps both members of the team safe and in control during emergency situations. This level usually lasts for 2 months. The cost varies greatly, depending on if board & train, in person, or online training.

The average cost is $xxxxxxx

We also provide an evaluation only option. This evaluation is done online.

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Level 4 SDiT 2a Teams that are ready to set behavior for situations, and places! Public Access Pretest Class. NOTE: We REQUIRE 30 hours of documented Public Access Training.

Level SDiT 2b Teams that want to make sure that their 3 required tasks are solid, and want to establish lifestyle required tasks.

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Level 5 Confirmed Service Dog Team Before all of the fake certifications, this word meant “guaranteed, or that someone is officially recognized”. Since most certifications are now not worth the paper they are printed on; we have chosen the term Confirmed Service Dog Team. “Confirm:  to give new assurance of the validity of: remove doubt about by authoritative act or indisputable fact.” Confirmation is achieved by successfully completing a recognized public access test* and demonstrating at least three tasks without error.

PROOF OF CONFIRMATION “CERTICICATION” IS NOT REQUIRED UNDER ADA!

It’s essential to note that the specific tasks a service dog is trained to perform can be tailored to the individual’s needs and abilities. The training process is highly specialized and focuses on what will enhance the person’s independence and quality of life. Service dogs undergo extensive training and must meet specific standards to ensure they can perform these tasks reliably.

Pretest classes are available online $XXX or in person for $100 per hour plus travel for one-on-one

Socialization/Behavior Modification

Socialization and behavior modification are crucial aspects of service dog training, especially when addressing issues that may arise during the training process. It’s important to ensure that service dogs in training are well-adjusted, confident, and capable of behaving appropriately in various situations.

Behavior Modification: PATIENCE IS THE KEY!

1. Identify Problem Behaviors: Start by identifying any specific issues or behaviors that need modification. These could include fear, aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking.
2. Consult a Professional: If you encounter serious behavior issues, it’s advisable to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who specializes in service dog training. They can assess the situation and create a customized behavior modification plan.
3. Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or toys, can be highly effective in modifying behavior. This encourages the dog to repeat good behavior.
4. Desensitization: Gradual exposure to the triggers of unwanted behavior, done in a controlled and positive manner, can help desensitize the dog and reduce fear or anxiety. For example, if a dog is fearful of loud noises, start with quieter sounds and gradually increases the volume over time.
5. Counterconditioning: This technique involves changing a dog’s emotional response to a particular stimulus. For example, if a dog is anxious around strangers, pair the presence of strangers with positive experiences like treats or play to create a positive association.
6. Consistency and Patience: Consistency in training methods and patience are crucial. Behavior modification can take time, and it’s essential to remain consistent in applying the chosen techniques.
7. Record Progress: Keep a training journal to track the dog’s progress. Document behaviors, responses to training, and any notable changes. This can help adjust the training plan as needed.

When volunteer resources are available, we will be offering guidance and resources on socialization and behavior modification, as this can be invaluable to individuals training service dogs. We plan to organize workshops, provide educational materials, or connect handlers with experienced trainers who can help address specific issues. Additionally, collaborating with other nonprofits with expertise in dog training and behavior modification will enhance the support we offer to our community.

Specialized Group Classes/Events

We believe that offering specialized classes for service dog training is a valuable initiative. These classes will help ensure that service dogs are well-trained, obedient, and capable of assisting their handlers effectively. Proper training is essential not only for the dogs but also for the safety and well-being of the handlers and the public.

We believe it is essential to have a well-structured and comprehensive training program that recognizes the different disabilities and needs of handlers. Topic examples are:

1. Emergency Response: Training in emergency procedures, including how to handle their service dog in crisis situations. This might involve teaching the dog to stay calm during medical emergencies or providing guidance on evacuations in emergency situations.

1. Handler Education: Instruction about the laws and regulations governing service dogs, our rights and responsibilities, and how to handle encounters with the public, including dealing with access challenges and educating others about the role of service dogs.
2. Health and Care: Understanding the importance of proper healthcare, grooming, and nutrition for their service dogs. This includes regular veterinary check-ups and recognizing signs of stress or illness.
3. Team Building: Building a strong bond between the handler and their service dog is essential. Classes can include activities that strengthen the emotional connection between the two, fostering trust and cooperation.

Public Access Meetups

We are looking for volunteers to coordinate meetups in their area. These would be for social gathering, and exchanging ideas in all things service dog team.

Webinars/ Online Events

This program is pending in development at this time. If you have any ideas, why not consider volunteering to set it up! CONTACT US

pACT – Retirement Training

Retirement training for service dogs is a crucial part of their journey, our mission to provide training resources extends to this important phase of their lives. It’s essential to provide your partner with proper care and support during retirement.

This training is an essential aspect of ensuring their well-being and transitioning them to a comfortable life after years of dedicated service. While much of our work revolves around training service dogs and educating the public, retirement training is a crucial topic to consider. The bond between a service dog team is a strong one, your partner has been an integral part of your life. When your partner retires, it’s essential to provide them with the care and support they deserve. Retirement training typically involves teaching them to place the energy into perhaps in home chores, and alternative exercise such as ball time, or frisbee catching. This includes helping them become comfortable assisting you in training a new prospect/SDIT. There will also be health issues that arise with age, ensuring they have a healthy diet, and addressing their emotional needs during this transition is as important as time spent with them training as a prospect and SDIT.

IN THIS SECTION: BOARD & TRAIN – TRAVELING WITH YOUR SERVICE DOG – SERVICE DOGS ON THE JOB

Board & Train

Board and train programs for service dogs can be an excellent option for individuals who may not have the time, expertise, or resources to personally train a service dog. In such programs, the service dog is typically placed with a professional trainer who takes on the responsibility of training the dog to perform specific tasks and behave appropriately in various situations.

These programs often involve comprehensive training, covering tasks that are tailored to the handler’s specific needs, such as assisting with mobility, alerting to medical conditions, or providing emotional support. The duration of board and train programs can vary widely, ranging from several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the training required.

When it comes to the cost of board and train for service dogs, it can also vary significantly depending on several factors. These factors include:

1. Location: Prices can vary based on the cost of living in your area. Urban areas with higher living costs may have higher training fees.
2. Type of Training: The specific tasks and skills the service dog needs to learn will impact the cost. More complex training may require a longer duration and, therefore, a higher cost.
3. Trainer’s Expertise: Experienced and well-known trainers may charge more for their services.
4. Facility Amenities: If the training takes place at a specialized facility with advanced equipment and amenities, it may be more expensive than training in a standard setting.
5. Follow-Up Training: Some programs may include follow-up training sessions to ensure the dog maintains its skills, and this could be an additional cost.
6. Inclusion of Equipment: Some programs may include service dog equipment (vests, leashes, etc.) in the overall cost.

Given these variables, the cost of board and train for a service dog can range from a few thousand dollars to several tens of thousands of dollars. It’s crucial to research and choose a reputable trainer or organization with experience in service dog training and to discuss the specific needs and costs upfront.

Traveling with Your Service Dog

Be prepared for that sudden trip or event. Traveling with a service dog requires preparation and practice. There are many activities that service dog teams can participate in. This level also trains for complex tasks. The cost is highly variable depending on the exact tasks needing to be trained. Contact us for more information.

Standard Service Dog Tasks

It’s essential to note that the specific tasks a service dog is trained to perform can be tailored to the individual’s needs and abilities. The training process is highly specialized and focuses on what will enhance the person’s independence and quality of life. Service dogs undergo extensive training and must meet specific standards to ensure they can perform these tasks reliably.

Autonomous Service Dogs

Some service dogs are trained to perform a combination of tasks for individuals with multiple disabilities or needs. They may assist with mobility, alert to medical issues, and provide emotional support.

Autism Support

Autism service dogs, are trained to provide various forms of assistance and support to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These dogs play a crucial role in helping individuals with autism navigate their daily lives and can offer emotional and practical support. Here are some of the tasks and roles that autism support dogs typically perform: Safety and wandering prevention, sensory comfort, emotional support, social facilitation, behavioral disruption, sleep assistance, transition support, communication aid, and stress reduction. It’s important to note that autism support dogs are trained to meet the specific needs of each individual with autism. The tasks and interventions performed by these dogs can vary based on the individual’s requirements and the training they receive. Additionally, the presence of an autism support dog can have a positive impact on the overall well-being of the individual and their family by providing emotional support and a sense of security.

Hearing Assistance (Limited training Available)

We offer ONLY training related to Mild Hearing Loss (21-40 dB): People with mild hearing loss may have difficulty hearing quiet or soft sounds, particularly in noisy environments. They might miss some conversational speech, especially when the speaker is distant or speaking softly. Mild hearing loss can affect the understanding of speech in challenging listening situations. Persons with hearing aids will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Tasks may include: sound alert to doorbells, alarm clocks, telephones ONLY. Object retrieval, providing comfort, and physical assistance. It’s important to note that hearing assistance dogs are carefully trained to respond to sounds and cues without becoming easily distracted by other noises or environmental stimuli. The specific sounds they are trained to recognize can be customized to match the individual’s needs and lifestyle. The presence of a hearing assistance dog greatly enhances the quality of life and safety of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, allowing them to be more independent and better connected to their surroundings. These dogs are trained to be attentive and responsive to their handlers’ needs, making them valuable companions in daily life.

Medical Alert

Medical Alert Dogs are trained to detect specific changes in their handler’s body odor or behavior associated with a medical condition.

• Allergy Alert Dogs: These dogs are trained to detect allergens, such as peanuts or specific food allergens, and alert their handler to their presence. They are essential for individuals with severe allergies to avoid potentially life-threatening reactions.
• Diabetic Alert Dogs: These dogs can detect changes in their handler’s blood sugar levels and alert them to high or low levels, allowing for timely intervention and management of diabetes.
• Cardiac Alert Dogs: These dogs are trained to detect changes in heart rate, and alert their handler to an impending heart issue.

Medical Response

• Seizure Response Dogs: Seizure response dogs are trained to provide assistance and support during and after seizures. They may offer comfort during a seizure, alert others for help, or guide their handler to a safe place after an episode.
• Fainting, falling, and other medical related incidents. These response dogs are trained to go get assistance for their handler, and carry important medical information and medication.

Medical Assistance

• Medical Assist dogs: are also often trained skills to help in their handlers’ symptoms, such as bringing medications or a telephone, get help for thei handler and additional various tasks as needed.

Mobility Assistance

• Providing support and stability while walking and going up and down stairs, picking up and carrying objects, pulling wheelchairs, opening and closing doors, operating light switches, helping with transfers from a wheelchair to a bed, pressing elevator buttons, pressing automatic door openers, retrieving dropped items, notifying others about their handler’s condition through barking or pawing, helping their handler go to a safe place after experiencing balance or mobility issues

Physical Assistance

• These dogs are trained in a wide variety of assistive tasks for persons with physical disability that prevent them from performing many “routine” daily tasks including: Dropped items: keys, a wallet, a cell phone, a credit card, a coin, etc., ringing phone, medication, drink out of the refrigerator, Identifying items by name, finding them and retrieving them, opening and closing doors, drawers, cabinets, etc, helping with chores, like laundry and making beds, assisting with transactions at check-out counters, carrying items, like shopping bags.

Psychiatric Service

• PTSD Assistance Dogs offer a sense of security and comfort to their handler. needs. For instance, they can alert their handler to signs of anxiety or a panic attack by nudging or pawing them. They can also interrupt distressing behaviors or thoughts by licking or providing tactile stimulation. Retrieving medication, reminding their handler to take prescribed medications, or even waking them from nightmares are some of the practical tasks these dogs can perform.
• Psychiatric Service Dogs (Limited Training Available): Psychiatric service dogs are individually trained to meet the specific needs of their handlers. The tasks they perform can vary based on the handler’s diagnosis and requirements. It’s essential for individuals with psychiatric service dogs to work closely with professional trainers and healthcare providers to ensure that the dog’s training aligns with their therapeutic goals. These dogs provide invaluable support to their handlers, contributing to improved mental health and overall well-being. Some tasks may include: alerting to medication, interrupting destructive behavior, and emotional support.

Sight Assistance (Limited Training Available)

We offer ONLY training relating to mild vision loss (20/30 to 20/60). Service dogs play a crucial role in enhancing the independence and quality of life for individuals with vision loss, regardless of the level of impairment.

Service dogs can be incredibly valuable for individuals with vision loss, including those with 20/30 to 20/60 vision. While the specific tasks a service dog can perform may vary depending on the individual’s needs and abilities, here are some common ways in which a service dog can assist someone with this level of vision impairment:

1. Mobility Assistance: Service dogs can help guide individuals with vision loss, allowing them to navigate safely in various environments. They can be trained to stop at curbs for example.
2. Object Retrieval: Service dogs can be trained to retrieve objects, such as keys, wallets, or dropped items, which can be challenging for someone with limited vision to locate on their own.
3. Assistance with Daily Tasks: Service dogs can assist with various daily tasks, like opening doors, turning on lights, and even helping with laundry or other household chores.
4. Alerting to Sounds: Dogs have keen senses, and they can be trained to alert their handlers to specific sounds, such as the doorbell, a ringing phone, or a timer going off.
5. Emotional Support: Beyond practical tasks, service dogs offer emotional support and companionship. They can provide comfort during stressful situations and help reduce feelings of isolation.
6. Safety: Service dogs can provide an added sense of security when out in public by alerting their handlers to danger.