Service Dog Training
We train dogs for service work (as described by the ADA) who are owned by the people they will be performing work for. We maintain strict requirements to the teams' individual training progressions. There is a great deal of dedication required to train your own service dog, however the end result is exceptionally rewarding.
If you have a dog over 6 months old that you want to be trained as a service dog, you MUST have your dog evaluated prior to any commitment. Additionally, all dogs, including puppies, must be evaluated for proper temperament and drive to do the type of service work appropriate for your needs.
Service Dog Training ranges from $10,000 - $25,000 depending upon the level of involvement by the owner. We can assist you with fundraising ideas, however the cost ultimately rests with the owner. Discounts available to CLUB members.
Our service dog training program is a minimum of 9 months and up to 18 months depending upon several factors, including age of dog, disability of the owner/handler, and the handler’s ability to complete the training. Handlers are required to maintain a training log and all socialization, obedience and task training shall be completed prior to certification.
We train for the following services:
Balance and Mobility Assistance
Physical Assistance
Psychiatric Service
Auditory Assistance
Ssig Dogs (Autism Assistance) ​
PTSD Dogs
For more information regarding our Service Dog Training, please see the Service Dog FAQ Page.
Client Owned Service Dog Training
If you are a handler with a disability, and would like assistance and a second set of hands to complete your service dog training, we will put together an individualized training plan that will get you and your dog to the point of certification. If you and your dog qualify (an application and evaluation are required) we will assist you in training all obedience and tasks. Prior to certification, there must be 9 months of logged training and socialization. Generally speaking, a dog must be 18 months to perform service dog work.
Service Dog Training Starting with a Puppy
Starting a puppy as a service dog is a great option for some handlers, as it allows the pup to learn the family, tasks and requirements through the imprint stages; however it is not for everyone as there are
approximately 16 months of growing up and training continues through the process. A pup must be evaluated and deemed suitable for the work prior to admission into our program.
Trained Adults
Occasionally we will start an appropriate dog in task training for service work. This does NOT mean the dog is ready to step into the role as a service dog immediately as the training must be completed with the handler. The dog will have the foundations and our trainers assist clients in finishing the training to the client's specific needs. If you are interested in purchasing an adult dog that has been started in assistance work, please contact us.
