06/19/2026
Online advice for service dog training? Let me break down these common phrases you may see online! 🐕🦺
Slide 1) While service dogs are not limited to any specific breed, we want to look at the individual dog and their traits. Going out and picking the first dog you see without information on their temperament can create challenges down the line. Whether from a rescue, a reputable breeder, or a private rehome situation, having a qualified service dog trainer evaluate the dog for suitability in service work increases your chances of success.
Slide 2) It is true, service dogs will make mistakes, they will have off days, but this shouldn't be used as an excuse for poor training, reactivity, or ongoing behaviour concerns. An off day could look like a startle, a small bark, getting more distracted by the general public, or wiggling towards another service dog with excitement. If your service dog is continually having issues, it is time to reevaluate the training, focus on the why of the behaviour and adjust your training to set your dog up for success.
Slide 3) mobility work *should not* be started without approval from a certified orthopedic veterinarian to ensure joint health long term. However foundations such as introducing a mobility harness and handle to your dog earlier on, practicing positioning and obedience in gear, and once age appropriate for your dog, training while holding handles, light pressure, and the foundational skills needed for tasks like forward momentum pull, wheelchair pulling, and counterbalance.
Slide 4) In this day and age, there are many pet friendly stores and locations that help simulate non-pet friendly stores. Rushing an 8 week old puppy into the mall for hours on end, going to Costco, or training for hours on end can increase chances of flooding, burnout long-term, and stress on the handler if the dog acts out.
Service dog information
Educational content about service dogs
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