Raising a Potential Assistance or Service dog

Often I get calls from people who want me to train their dog to be their service dog. First, service dogs are generally bred by the organization and started in the first few weeks of life. Then, the pup is sent to a "puppy raiser" to further his manners, socialization, and some basic obedience until the pup is around a year of age when he goes back to the organization for his service training. Many dogs that are bred for this work, end up washing out of the program, thus the trained service dog comes at a high price. The puppy raiser usually puts the pup through the AKC Canine Good Citizen program as the foundation. As an approved evaluator for the American Kennel Club family dog programs such as Canine Good Citizen, the trainers and evaluators are expected to use positive reinforcement and kind methods. Prong collars are not permitted for the STAR Puppy or CGC tests. Shock collars are certainly prohibited as well. Puppies being raised for later service work start with the foundation in the CGC program. The trainers/puppy raisers must follow LIMA (Least Invasive, Minimally Adverse) policy. Organizations such as Canine Companions and Atlas Assistance Dogs follow this strictly. If you send your dog out for training, likely the trainer will use fear-based methods and force (shock collars, etc.) Many breeds are not well suited to be service dogs, but may be okay as an emotional support or therapy dog which limits public access. If you still want to take on the challenge of making your personal dog into your service dog, start early as a puppy with the AKC STAR puppy class, then progress on to the CGC program. Many owners find it difficult to pass the basic level of the CGC test. Remember that service dogs are bred and handled from birth for their service career ahead. The CGC has two advanced levels that test the dog in public surroundings and an urban setting. After you have completed that with your pup, consult with a private trainer to teach the specific tasks you need your dog to do to help with your ADA disability.