Is A Service Dog Right For Me?
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Do you have a disability (or a disability history) that makes normal day-to-day function difficult?
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Yes
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It seems like you're looking for something other than a service dog; it may be time to re-evaluate.
A service dog is defined, under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) as: A service animal is a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.
Therefore, in order for a dog to be a service dog, their person has to have a disability.
What qualifies as a "disability"?
The U.S. government defines it this way, once again under the ADA:
A person with a disability is someone who:
- has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities,
- has a history or record of such an impairment (such as cancer that is in remission), or
- is perceived by others as having such an impairment (such as a person who has scars from a severe burn).
If this does not objectively describe a situation you are in, you can be prepared in every other way for a service dog, but it will not be a service dog. It will be simply an extremely well-trained dog.
That said, what you can do is help train a service dog for another person. Is that something that sounds interesting to you? Check out our sister-quiz for those looking at puppy raising/training, here! (Link opens in a new tab; you don't have to quit the assessment!)
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Have you researched the financial costs associated with a service dog, including veterinary care and ongoing expenses?
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I have not done research and don't know how
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I have an estimated price range and have worked out a monthly budget
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Need help?
It can be difficult to figure out where to start when trying to put a finger on how much a service dog is going to cost. The good news is, you don't have to figure out everything all at once. Here's a bit of a list to get you started.
Talk with your vet about a per-period quote.
- Training treat amount per week/month
The bougier the treats you get, the more expensive they'll be. Just remember that the treats you get - just like the food - is an investment into your medical equipment. They can only perform as well as you take care of them.
- Training expenses per month/year
This will differ, depending on the organization or trainer you're working with. When I was owner-training my boy, my monthly "tuition" was $200. Some organizations will cost more, others will cost less. Some may ask for a lump sum, others may agree to a monthly payment plan. I advise also double checking whether they'll take this money by direct withdrawl or if it's something you have to actively make a payment on. If it's the latter, set a calendar reminder!
- Food expenses per month
This will depend on quality of food, and how much food your size of dog will need to eat each day.
- Amount of toys you want your dog to have, and how likely they will need restocking
How many chews does your dog need in order to satisfy their need to chew or to save your furniture/shoes?
How many stuffies do you want your dog to have, and how quickly will they tear through them?
How many brain games do you want?
I recommed enough of each to be able to cycle through them every once in a while in order to keep your dog's interest.
- How much do you want in the bank in case of an emergency?
I recommend at least a couple thousand - emergency vet bills come fast and hard.
- How often are you likely to need a new training vest? How much for the appropriate leashes/collars?
I would also recommend at least one backup - you never know when one might break unexpectedly. True story.
- Grooming expenses
Brush. Comb. Shampoo. Nail grinder and clippers.
For dogs with more grooming needs (like poodles,) this will also include hair cutting needs, and potentially a grooming table.
I would also recommend a power dryer (especially for the aforementioned dogs with more grooming needs). That one's less of a necessity and more of a "it's an extra help." I've used a regular hairdryer in the interim, but the power dryer definitely makes drying from a bath faster and easier.
How many brain games do you want?
I recommed enough of each to be able to cycle through them every once in a while in order to keep your dog's interest.
- How much do you want in the bank in case of an emergency?
I recommend at least a couple thousand - emergency vet bills come fast and hard.
- How often are you likely to need a new training vest? How much for the appropriate leashes/collars?
I would also recommend at least one backup - you never know when one might break unexpectedly. True story.
- Grooming expenses
Brush. Comb. Shampoo. Nail grinder and clippers.
For dogs with more grooming needs (like poodles,) this will also include hair cutting needs, and potentially a grooming table.
I would also recommend a power dryer (especially for the aforementioned dogs with more grooming needs). That one's less of a necessity and more of a "it's an extra help." I've used a regular hairdryer in the interim, but the power dryer definitely makes drying from a bath faster and easier.
These aren't the only expenses you should take into consideration; merely a starting point. To dig deeper and get more ideas, you can check out Six Feet to Independence here. (Link opens in a new tab; you don't have to quit the assessment!)
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Nice work!
Finances can be a bit of an elephant in the room, especially when it comes to something as important as medical equipment. Let's take a look at a rough list of things it'll be important to look at before you bring your dog home. See if you've got all of these figured out. (Roughly - it's hard to pin down an exact amount.)
Talk with your vet about a per-period quote.
- Training treat amount per week/month
The bougier the treats you get, the more expensive they'll be. Just remember that the treats you get - just like the food - is an investment into your medical equipment. They can only perform as well as you take care of them.
- Training expenses per month/year
This will differ, depending on the organization or trainer you're working with. When I was owner-training my boy, my monthly "tuition" was $200. Some organizations will cost more, others will cost less. Some may ask for a lump sum, others may agree to a monthly payment plan. I advise also double checking whether they'll take this money by direct withdrawl or if it's something you have to actively make a payment on. If it's the latter, set a calendar reminder!
- Food expenses per month
This will depend on quality of food, and how much food your size of dog will need to eat each day.
- Amount of toys you want your dog to have, and how likely they will need restocking
How many chews does your dog need in order to satisfy their need to chew or to save your furniture/shoes?
How many stuffies do you want your dog to have, and how quickly will they tear through them?
How many brain games do you want?
I recommed enough of each to be able to cycle through them every once in a while in order to keep your dog's interest.
- How much do you want in the bank in case of an emergency?
I recommend at least a couple thousand - emergency vet bills come fast and hard.
- How often are you likely to need a new training vest? How much for the appropriate leashes/collars?
I would also recommend at least one backup - you never know when one might break unexpectedly. True story.
- Grooming expenses
Brush. Comb. Shampoo. Nail grinder and clippers.
For dogs with more grooming needs (like poodles,) this will also include hair cutting needs, and potentially a grooming table.
I would also recommend a power dryer (especially for the aforementioned dogs with more grooming needs). That one's less of a necessity and more of a "it's an extra help." I've used a regular hairdryer in the interim, but the power dryer definitely makes drying from a bath faster and easier.
How many brain games do you want?
I recommed enough of each to be able to cycle through them every once in a while in order to keep your dog's interest.
- How much do you want in the bank in case of an emergency?
I recommend at least a couple thousand - emergency vet bills come fast and hard.
- How often are you likely to need a new training vest? How much for the appropriate leashes/collars?
I would also recommend at least one backup - you never know when one might break unexpectedly. True story.
- Grooming expenses
Brush. Comb. Shampoo. Nail grinder and clippers.
For dogs with more grooming needs (like poodles,) this will also include hair cutting needs, and potentially a grooming table.
I would also recommend a power dryer (especially for the aforementioned dogs with more grooming needs). That one's less of a necessity and more of a "it's an extra help." I've used a regular hairdryer in the interim, but the power dryer definitely makes drying from a bath faster and easier.
-Home alone expenses
Eventually, the dog will go with you to the majority of places, but while they're in training, they'll likely be home a lot of the time. Do you know where they'll be, in that situation? Do you have a crate for them? Pee-pads for puppies? An X-pen to give them a bit of play space? Safe chews or toys they won't choke on?
Are you planning on hiring a dog walker or drop-in dogsitter to let them out while you're gone? Do you know how much that'll be, and how often the walker/sitter will look to be paid?
These aren't the only expenses you should take into consideration; merely a starting point. To dig deeper and get more ideas, you can check out Six Feet to Independence here. (Open link in new tab to continue the assessment!)
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Do you have a stable living and housing situation that is suitable for a service dog, including enough space and a secure outdoor area? Have you taken into consideration how the breed or size of dog you're looking at (if you have one in mind) might change those necessities?
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What is a stable living and housing situation for a service dog?
This can be a complicated question to answer, as it involves a lot of factors. Let's start with a few examples to get your mind going in the right direction.
- Do you own your house, or is your landlord okay with pets?
Housing can be a bit of a gray area, when it comes to service dog law. A good general rule of thumb is that a service dog can't be disallowed on the basis of a no-pets clause, and you can't be expected to pay a pet fee because of a service dog. In some states, service dogs in training have the same rights as service dogs. In others, they don't. What are your state's rules?
The above is also not a hard and fast rule - it can depend on how many houses or buildings your landlord owns and handles. The number can also vary from state to state. It's important that you know your rights, here, because not every landlord or apartment will.
- Is there at least somewhat of a steady routine?
- Does your house have a fenced-in yard, or are you willing to put in the training on where the yard's boundary lines are?
- Will the dog have someone and some way to burn their energy, every day?
Maybe you have a drop-in dogsitter while you're out. Maybe the kids play with the dog after school. Maybe you take the dog for a walk after work. Whatever it is, make sure the dog's physical energy has a way of being worked out.
- Will training be a regular occurrence?
Service dog candidates are SMART. They have to be, to make it through what'd equate to a PhD for a human. As such, they need a way to burn their mental energy just as much as their physical energy. Do you have a plan on where that fits into your schedule?
- Can they depend on their grooming needs being met?
- Who is responsible for making sure the dog has been fed and has adequate water? Does this responsibility change between people throughout the day or week?
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Are you prepared for the long-term commitment of caring for a service dog through its working years (up to 8 years), and either retirement or rehoming?
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Maybe
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Have you considered the time commitment required to train and care for a service dog?
Yes
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Are you (and any others that live with you) able to provide a stable and consistent routine for a service dog?
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Do you have a service dog trainer, or have you done research into how to train the various aspects of a service dog's skills (socialization; beginner, advanced, and expert obedience; task training; intelligent disobedience)?
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Yes
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Are you (and those who live with you) fully committed to following the instructions provided by the service dog trainer for the well-being of the service dog? Even when you don't understand them?
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Yes
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You're signing up to make this journey harder than it needs to be
A service dog trainer - like any expert - knows what they're doing. If you've hired a service dog trainer but aren't committed to following their advice, it's like you hired a tour guide within a cave system but decided to strike off on your own, anyway. If you get lost in the tunnels and systems and can't find your way out, it's on you.
If you find yourself in this position of being unable to commit to do what your trainer suggests, I have two suggestions:
1. Re-evaluate your stance.
2. Find another trainer.
If it's someone you live with that won't commit to listening to your trainer, you may need to have a hard conversation about not interacting with the dog. If the dog has two different sets of rules, you can end up with a situation to similar to if one parent tells a child "no candy before dinner," and the other tells a child that candy before dinner is fine. It can result in a confused child/dog set up to fail. If you're set up to fail, it can result in frustration, which has the potential to lead to burn-out on the dog's part.
If you need to have this conversation, handing them the book Six Feet to Independence (link opens in a new tab; you don't have to quit the assessment!) can work to confirm that you're both operating from the same base knowledge, coming into that hard discussion.
One way or another, if someone is unwilling to fully commit to listening to the trainer - whether you or someone you live with - this journey may end up more difficult than it needs to be.
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Have you made necessary adjustments in your home to accommodate the needs of a service dog, such as creating a designated space for the dog's belongings and rest? Have you taken into consideration how the breed or size of dog you're looking at (if you have one in mind) might change those necessities?
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Uh-oh! You may want to rethink that strategy...
In my experience, "in the moment" can be the hardest time to figure out something like this. Dogs - like most animals - tend to prefer certainty, whether that's in a schedule or a safe place to retreat, like a crate. Having a consistent "away" place for them to go, or establishing the crate as a safe, calm place ahead of time might be exactly what you need in the moment. And, at that point, it's too late to establish it.
If Cor is worked up and having a hard time calming down, I'll put him in the crate for a little while to help him settle down. It's like a human retreating to their room after a frustrating conversation - it helps settle the mind.
As for the dogs' belongings having a place to go, that can mainly be for the humans' peace of mind.
- When the toys have a place to go, and don't just stay scattered around, then there aren't dog toys scattered around, just waiting to reach out and twist an ankle like children's toys are likely to do. It's even better if you can teach the dog to pick up their toys and put them in the basket!
- When the vest, leash, and outing treats have a place to stay, you don't have to scramble to find what's necessary before you go out. We have a hook by the garage door that holds all the leashes, the vests, and the keys so it's just a grab-and-go. My sister does one smarter, and has everything in a bag by those hooks.
- When you keep all the grooming supplies in the same place, it's easier to grab whatever it is you need rather than needing to leave the dog on the grooming table to run and grab the one thing. Then, bonus! you won't come back to the dog having jumped off the table and tracked hair everywhere. (Not that I speak from experience or anything.)
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Have you educated yourselves on the legal rights of service dogs, and the responsibilities associated with owning a dog, in your area?
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Yes
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Are you open to receiving feedback and guidance from a trainer to enhance the bond and effectiveness of the service dog within your family?
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Are there animals in your home that will have a problem with you welcoming in a puppy or full-grown dog?
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Yes
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Do you know what breed/size/temperament of dog would work best for you and your needs?
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This is a good question for your trainer
Good dog trainers know their craft - just like any expert. A good trainer will be aiming to determine which dog/breed will work well for the person and is most likely to succeed in training. They'll know what red and green flags they're looking for in a candidate, and be able to match a dog to a handler better than the handler themself. Even if the handler has a breed they like the look or idea of.
Trust me on this one - both me and my sister walked in with the idea of a German shepherd. Our trainer was able to tell us that breed wasn't a good idea for:
- first time handlers in general
- us in particular
- people looking for the specific kind of service dogs we were.
Neither of us would've known this without trial-and-error. And, if you read Six Feet to Independence, (link opens in a new tab; you don't have to quit the assessment!) you'll see she was right.
In addition, some trainers only work with certain breeds. Others will only work with purebreds or with rescues. Still others only train for certain things, and have thus figured out some nuances to look for that make this or that dog more ideal. If you know what trainer you want to work with and they're a capable trainer, they'll have a good idea as to what kind of dog would be best for you.
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This is a good question for your trainer!
Good dog trainers know their craft - just like any expert. A good trainer will be aiming to determine which dog/breed will work well for the person and is most likely to succeed in training. They'll know what red and green flags they're looking for in a candidate, and be able to match a dog to a handler better than the handler themself. Even if the handler has a breed they like the look or idea of.
Trust me on this one - both me and my sister walked in with the idea of a German shepherd. Our trainer was able to tell us that breed wasn't a good idea for:
- first time handlers in general
- us in particular
- people looking for the specific kind of service dogs we were.
Neither of us would've known this without trial-and-error. And, if you read Six Feet to Independence, (link opens in a new tab; you don't have to quit the assessment!) you'll see she was right.
In addition, some trainers only work with certain breeds. Others will only work with purebreds or with rescues. Still others only train for certain things, and have thus figured out some nuances to look for that make this or that dog more ideal. If you know what trainer you want to work with and they're a capable trainer, they'll have a good idea as to what kind of dog would be best for you.
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Do you have a company lined up to get you on a service dog registry?
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Yes
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You've Been Scammed!
(Or you don't live in the U.S.)
(Or you don't live in the U.S.)
In the United States, there is NO service dog registry, certification, or record.
If you've paid someone to certify your dog - or if you have someone lined up to put your dog on a "service dog registry," you've either been scammed, or they're working from outside the U.S.
If you've paid someone to certify your dog - or if you have someone lined up to put your dog on a "service dog registry," you've either been scammed, or they're working from outside the U.S.
A dog is a service dog if (and only if) - according to the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act): they are a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.
Now, this does come with a few caveats*, but a "certification" is not one of them. You do not need an ID card for your dog, health records, registration/certification numer, or credentials for your dog to be of the service variety.
*An aggressive dog cannot be a service dog.
*A service dog is expected to be able to handle themselves properly in public. Many trainers will put a service dog through several levels of obedience training, just because of how much scrutiny is on them, but, legally, as long as the dog is "potty-trained," can behave in public, and performs at least one disability-mitigating task, they're a service dog.
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Good news - if you live in the US, you don't have to!
In the United States, there is NO service dog registry, certification, or record.
If you've paid someone to certify your dog - or if you have someone lined up to put your dog on a "service dog registry," you've either been scammed, or they're working from outside the U.S.
If you've paid someone to certify your dog - or if you have someone lined up to put your dog on a "service dog registry," you've either been scammed, or they're working from outside the U.S.
A dog is a service dog if (and only if) - according to the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act): they are a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.
Now, this does come with a few caveats*, but a "certification" is not one of them. You do not need an ID card for your dog, health records, registration/certification numer, or credentials for your dog to be of the service variety.
*An aggressive dog cannot be a service dog.
*A service dog is expected to be able to handle themselves properly in public. Many trainers will put a service dog through several levels of obedience training, just because of how much scrutiny is on them, but, legally, as long as the dog is "potty-trained," can behave in public, and performs at least one disability-mitigating task, they're a service dog.
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Are the others in the house willing to actively participate in the service dog's care and training?
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Uh-oh, you may want to consider a different strategy
This is actually something I cover in Six Feet to Independence. Training a service dog isn't a one-person endeavor, even if that person is the one who will be benefitting the most from the dog.
- There will be times the handler has to step away. Whether that's for their mental health or the dog's.
- There will be times the handler has to do something away from home, and the others in the house have to take up the slack.
- There will be times when the handler is sick or injured, and others need to step in to help out in ways the handler currently can't.
There are also more everyday situations where division of focus and responsibilities are more spread out.
- Is there someone who leaves the house after the others in the morning that would be better suited to taking the dog out one last time and then putting them into their crate for the day?
- Can a couple people come home over the lunch hour on a rotating schedule to let the dog out?
- Is there someone who gets home earliest in the evenings that can let the dog out to go potty and either get them settled with a brain game, take them for a walk, or play with them for a few minutes to burn energy?
- Is there someone other than the handler better suited to more consistent or firm training? Does this need to be a tag-team effort?
Other questions will come up for your individual situation that you'll get to figure out yourselves. The point is that, similar to many things in life, raising and/or training a service dog is a team effort.
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This may be something worth touching base on, again.
I cover this in Six Feet to Independence, actually. Just because one person is going to get the most benefit from the dog doesn't mean that not everyone is going to be impacted by - and have an impact on - the dog.
Not everyone will have the same amount of responsibility, of course, but it's likely that everyone will be called on to do something at some point. And, it's important that everyone in the house is aware of that.
- There will be times the handler has to step away. Whether that's for their mental health or the dog's.
- There will be times the handler has to do something away from home, and the others in the house have to take up the slack.
- There will be times when the handler is sick or injured, and others need to step in to help out in ways the handler currently can't.
- There will be times the handler has to do something away from home, and the others in the house have to take up the slack.
- There will be times when the handler is sick or injured, and others need to step in to help out in ways the handler currently can't.
There are also more everyday situations where division of focus and responsibilities are more spread out.
- Is there someone who leaves the house after the others in the morning that would be better suited to taking the dog out one last time and then putting them into their crate for the day?
- Can a couple people come home over the lunch hour on a rotating schedule to let the dog out?
- Is there someone who gets home earliest in the evenings that can let the dog out to go potty and either get them settled with a brain game, take them for a walk, or play with them for a few minutes to burn energy?
- Is there someone other than the handler better suited to more consistent or firm training? Does this need to be a tag-team effort?
Other questions will come up for your individual situation that you'll get to figure out yourselves. The point is that, similar to many things in life, raising and/or training a service dog is a team effort. If not everyone is on board with this idea, the whole endeavor can become a challenge.
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Have you (and any who live with you) discussed the responsibilities of owning a service dog?
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Yes
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Are you willing to rehome those animals in the interest of bringing in a service dog?
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Yes
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Uh-oh, it seems we have an issue...
If there's an animal that will have a problem with another animal coming into the home, you have a choice to make.
Why do you have to make this choice? Because, like humans, animals don't work well when they feel threatened or in another way unsafe. If there's another animal in the house that will take issue with the service dog's presence, it may lead to a fearful, overly submissive, or ultimately aggressive dog. I have seen dogs that became unable to continue work as a service dog because they'd had one too many dogs come at them. This is one reason fake service dogs can be so dangerous; if a dog that learns to be wary of other dogs, like a human that's learned it's better to push someone away than have them leave, they can start to have aggressive tendencies. This isn't because they're bad dogs, but because they feel unsafe and any animal - human or otherwise - will try and defend themself. That will take precedence to working.
This is a situation in which you have to choose your hard:
- Rehoming a dog is hard (believe me; I've had to do that for this exact reason. He was a service dog candidate that didn't make it through the program, but wouldn't have let another dog come into the house to take over his job. So, I had to find him a new home. It's one of the hardest things I've done, and you can learn more about it in Six Feet to Independence. I'm sorry, if this is the route you decide you have to go down. Truly, friend - that sucks; I'm sorry (if you want to find out more, that link opens in a new tab, and you won't have to stop the assessment)).
- Retraining a dog is hard. And, in certain cases, this may be a moot point - the dog may simply have non-retrainable boundaries.
Choose your hard; but you owe it to both dogs to find an answer that's not just "they'll work it out." That's not their role or responsibility; it's yours.
Until you choose your hard, you're not ready for a service dog.
Next
Are you willing to seek out a dog trainer who can see if it's possible to retrain the dog to accept the newcomer?
Note: this will either be before or while also training a service dog - consider the additional time, money, and energy this would require, as such.
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Yes
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Are you willing to allow your trainer to pick your dog?
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Yes
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Uh-oh! You may want to consider another strategy
It can be very easy for a prospective handler to fall in love with a particular dog/breed and therefore have a biased view when picking out a service dog candidate.
A good trainer is more interested in determining a dog/breed that will work well for the person and is more likely to succeed in training. They'll know what red and green flags they're looking for in a candidate, and be able to match a dog to a handler better than the handler themself. Especially if this is the handler's first try.
Some trainers only work with certain breeds. Others will only work with purebreds or with rescues. Still others only train for certain things, and have thus figured out some nuances to look for that make this or that dog more ideal. A good trainer will be able to match temperaments, energies, and personalities because they've done it before. They know what they're doing.
And, trust me - you'll fall in love with the dog whether or not you choose it for yourself!
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I'd suggest it.
It can be very easy for a prospective handler to fall in love with a particular dog/breed and therefore have a biased view when picking out a service dog candidate.
A good trainer is more interested in determining a dog/breed that will work well for the person and is more likely to succeed in training. They'll know what red and green flags they're looking for in a candidate, and be able to match a dog to a handler better than the handler themself. Especially if this is the handler's first try.
Some trainers only work with certain breeds. Others will only work with purebreds or with rescues. Still others only train for certain things, and have thus figured out some nuances to look for that make this or that dog more ideal. A good trainer will be able to match temperaments, energies, and personalities because they've done it before. They know what they're doing.
And, trust me - you'll fall in love with the dog whether or not you choose it for yourself!
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Do you already have a dog picked out as a service dog candidate?
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Yes
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Has this dog gone through a temperament test?
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Yes - he/she passed
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Uh-oh, you may want to pick a different strategy
Not every person is cut out to be a heart surgeon (no pun intended). Similarly, not every dog is cut out to be a service dog.
The temperament test that service dog candidates go through is to make sure the process of training has the best chance of success. If a dog doesn't pass the test, chances are the dog won't make it as a service dog.
Ignoring a failing grade in a temperament test is like trying to push someone who failed medical school into the operating room; there's a very good chance the results can be disastrous for everyone.
I understand having your heart set on a dog and being heartbroken when they don't pass a temperament test - that's happened to me, too. I tell the story in Six Feet to Independence. (Link opens in a new tab; you don't have to quit the assessment!) This can be a devastating turn of events, and you have my sympathy. That doesn't mean it's good for the dog to expect from them a job they're not cut out for. That doesn't mean they can't be a good pet alongside a service dog, if your budget can support it.
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A plausibility test
Good question!
The temperament test that service dog candidates go through as puppies is a test to make sure the process of training has the best chance of success. It's not a test to see if the dog will make it through training - it's a test to see if it's worth trying to train a dog to be a service dog. It tests a puppy on things like:
- Does the dog bounce back from startles in a good amount of time?
- Is the dog fearful of new places?
- How independent is the dog?
If a dog doesn't pass the test, chances are the dog won't make it as a service dog.
There are a few important things it's important to make sure of when it comes to a temperament test. A couple of these are that 1) neither the potential handler nor the breeder/foster human are doing the testing, and 2) the person who is doing the testing knows what they're doing and looking for.
I cover more on the temperament test - and why these two things (and more!) are important in Six Feet to Independence. (Link opens in a new tab; you don't have to quit the assessment!)
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Are you willing to restart the process with another dog?
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Yes
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Are you willing to let your trainer temperament test the dog and listen to them if they say the dog isn't cut out for service dog work?
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Yes
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Uh-oh, you may want to pick a different strategy...
Not every person is cut out to be a heart surgeon (no pun intended). Similarly, not every dog is cut out to be a service dog.
The temperament test that service dog candidates go through is to make sure the process of training has the best chance of success. If a dog doesn't pass the test, chances are the dog won't make it as a service dog.
Ignoring a failing grade in a temperament test is like trying to push someone who failed medical school into the operating room; there's a very good chance the results can be disastrous for everyone.
If you don't allow your candidate to be temperament tested - or don't listen when your trainer says "this dog isn't cut out for this work," you may be signing up to make this journey harder, longer, and more expensive than it needs to be. I suggest re-evaluating your stance on this, if only to save yourself potential heartbreaks and holes in your wallet.
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I recommend it.
Not every person is cut out to be a heart surgeon (no pun intended). Similarly, not every dog is cut out to be a service dog.
The temperament test that service dog candidates go through is to make sure the process of training has the best chance of success. If a dog doesn't pass the test, chances are the dog won't make it as a service dog.
Ignoring a failing grade in a temperament test is like trying to push someone who failed medical school into the operating room; there's a very good chance the results can be disastrous for everyone.
If you don't allow your candidate to be temperament tested - or don't listen when your trainer says "this dog isn't cut out for this work," you may be signing up to make this journey harder, longer, and more expensive than it needs to be. I suggest re-evaluating your stance on this, if only to save yourself potential heartbreaks and holes in your wallet.
Next
If this dog doesn't pass the temperament test, are you willing to allow your trainer to pick your new dog?
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Yes
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Add RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsNo
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Edit RecommendationAdd TagsView All Assigned TagsI don't know
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Uh-oh, you may want to pick a different strategy...
It can be very easy for a prospective handler to fall in love with a particular dog/breed and therefore have a biased view when picking out a service dog candidate.
A good trainer is more interested in determining a dog/breed that will work well for the person and is more likely to succeed in training. They will know what red and green flags they're looking for in a candidate, and be able to match a dog to a handler better than the handler themself. Especially if this is the handler's first try.
Some trainers only work with certain breeds. Others will only work with purebreds or with rescues. Still others only train for certain things, and have thus figured out some nuances to look for that make this or that dog more ideal. A good trainer will be able to match temperaments, energies, and personalities because they've done it before. They know what they're doing.
And, trust me - you'll fall in love with the dog whether or not you choose it for yourself!
Next
I recommend it
It can be very easy for a prospective handler to fall in love with a particular dog/breed and therefore have a biased view when picking out a service dog candidate.
A good trainer is more interested in determining a dog/breed that will work well for the person and is more likely to succeed in training. They will know what red and green flags they're looking for in a candidate, and be able to match a dog to a handler better than the handler themself. Especially if this is the handler's first try.
Some trainers only work with certain breeds. Others will only work with purebreds or with rescues. Still others only train for certain things, and have thus figured out some nuances to look for that make this or that dog more ideal. A good trainer will be able to match temperaments, energies, and personalities because they've done it before. They know what they're doing.
And, trust me - you'll fall in love with the dog whether or not you choose it for yourself!
Next
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There are a few questions I'd suggest digging deeper into
But that's actually good news!
But that's actually good news!
Why? Because now you know where you're starting - and you know what you need to do to improve. And guess what? Taking this assessment and learning what you have to look deeper into is the first step. The next step is to check your inbox for the email that lists your answers and the correct answers. Take a look at that email and see the full breakdown of what we suggest improving and researching.
The even better news? There's a book that can help you with a sizable chunk of that research, saving you time, money, and heartache - and you can get it now, at 40% off.
Six Feet to Independence is written as the book the author wishes she'd found when she was starting; the one that could've told her just how her life would change. The one that would tell her what she needed to work on and tweak before she got started. What could save her from pouring time and energy and money down the wrong path.
Six Feet to Independence is full of wisdom and insight from trainers, responsible breeders, handlers, and family members of handlers - all of whom answer the questions she didn't know to ask when starting.
You can find the book through the link below, or through the email that we just sent to your inbox. In that email, you'll also find a link to hop on a call with the author to ask questions and discover next steps. You'll also find a gift!
Nota bene: Be sure to check your spam folder!
The even better news? There's a book that can help you with a sizable chunk of that research, saving you time, money, and heartache - and you can get it now, at 40% off.
Six Feet to Independence is written as the book the author wishes she'd found when she was starting; the one that could've told her just how her life would change. The one that would tell her what she needed to work on and tweak before she got started. What could save her from pouring time and energy and money down the wrong path.
Six Feet to Independence is full of wisdom and insight from trainers, responsible breeders, handlers, and family members of handlers - all of whom answer the questions she didn't know to ask when starting.
You can find the book through the link below, or through the email that we just sent to your inbox. In that email, you'll also find a link to hop on a call with the author to ask questions and discover next steps. You'll also find a gift!
Nota bene: Be sure to check your spam folder!
Get the book!
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Good news!
You're on your way to being ready for a service dog!
That said, it'd be a good idea to do some more research before you jump into this endeavor. The good news is that your inbox now holds an email that lists your answers and the correct answers. Take a look at that email and see the full breakdown of what we suggest improving and researching.
And!
The even better news is that there's a book that can help you with a sizable chunk of that research, saving you time, money, and heartache - and you can get it now, at 40% off.
Six Feet to Independence is written as the book the author wishes she'd found when she was starting; the one that could've told her just how her life would change. The one that would tell her what she needed to work on and tweak before she got started. What could save her from pouring time and energy and money down the wrong path.
Six Feet to Independence is full of wisdom and insight from trainers, responsible breeders, handlers, and family members of handlers - all of whom answer the questions she didn't know to ask when starting.
You can find the book through the link below, or through the email that we just sent to your inbox. In that email, you'll also find a link to hop on a call with the author to ask questions and discover next steps. You'll also find a gift!
Nota bene: Be sure to check your spam folder!
That said, it'd be a good idea to do some more research before you jump into this endeavor. The good news is that your inbox now holds an email that lists your answers and the correct answers. Take a look at that email and see the full breakdown of what we suggest improving and researching.
And!
The even better news is that there's a book that can help you with a sizable chunk of that research, saving you time, money, and heartache - and you can get it now, at 40% off.
Six Feet to Independence is written as the book the author wishes she'd found when she was starting; the one that could've told her just how her life would change. The one that would tell her what she needed to work on and tweak before she got started. What could save her from pouring time and energy and money down the wrong path.
Six Feet to Independence is full of wisdom and insight from trainers, responsible breeders, handlers, and family members of handlers - all of whom answer the questions she didn't know to ask when starting.
You can find the book through the link below, or through the email that we just sent to your inbox. In that email, you'll also find a link to hop on a call with the author to ask questions and discover next steps. You'll also find a gift!
Nota bene: Be sure to check your spam folder!
Get the book, now!
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GREAT NEWS!
You're well on your way to being ready for a service dog! There are a few more things you may want to think a bit more about, before you start, though. The good news is that your inbox now holds an email that lists your answers and the correct answers. Take a look at that email and see the full breakdown of what we suggest improving and researching.
And!
The even better news is that there's a book that can help you with a sizable chunk of that research, saving you time, money, and heartache - and you can get it now, at 40% off.
Six Feet to Independence is written as the book the author wishes she'd found when she was starting; the one that could've told her just how her life would change. The one that would tell her what she needed to work on and tweak before she got started. What could save her from pouring time and energy and money down the wrong path.
Six Feet to Independence is full of wisdom and insight from trainers, responsible breeders, handlers, and family members of handlers - all of whom answer the questions she didn't know to ask when starting.
You can find the book through the link below, or through the email that we just sent to your inbox. In that email, you'll also find a link to hop on a call with the author to ask questions and discover next steps. You'll also find a gift!
Nota bene: Be sure to check your spam folder!
And!
The even better news is that there's a book that can help you with a sizable chunk of that research, saving you time, money, and heartache - and you can get it now, at 40% off.
Six Feet to Independence is written as the book the author wishes she'd found when she was starting; the one that could've told her just how her life would change. The one that would tell her what she needed to work on and tweak before she got started. What could save her from pouring time and energy and money down the wrong path.
Six Feet to Independence is full of wisdom and insight from trainers, responsible breeders, handlers, and family members of handlers - all of whom answer the questions she didn't know to ask when starting.
You can find the book through the link below, or through the email that we just sent to your inbox. In that email, you'll also find a link to hop on a call with the author to ask questions and discover next steps. You'll also find a gift!
Nota bene: Be sure to check your spam folder!
Get the book, now!
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WOW!!
Way to go! You must've studied a lot to know this much. (Do you have a service dog already? 😉 )
What are your next steps? We'd suggest you start to build an emergency fund, find a reputable service dog trainer near you (if you haven't already), and connect with other service dog handlers that can encourage and support you on your journey.
We also suggest you get a copy or two of this book (click the link below to go directly to checkout) to help those around you better understand the journey you're about to start on. As the author points out in the book, a supportive rope team is important - and the good news is that you can get Six Feet, now, at 40% off.
Six Feet to Independence is written as the book the author wishes she'd found when she was starting; the one that could've told her just how her life would change. The one she could hand to her family to show them the same; a book would be more impressive than her broken explanations. The book that could save her - and everyone around her - from pouring time and energy and money down the wrong path.
Six Feet to Independence is full of wisdom and insight from trainers, responsible breeders, handlers, and family members of handlers - all of whom answer the questions she didn't know to ask when starting.
Nota bene: Be sure to check your spam folder!
And! (Because more help is better than less, here,) the email we just sent you contains two links; one is the link to the book, and the other is a link to schedule a zoom call with the author to get any further questions answered. This link is good for the handler, family, or friends. (Limit: 3 calls per email sent out.)
Wishing you all the best with your continued adventure!
What are your next steps? We'd suggest you start to build an emergency fund, find a reputable service dog trainer near you (if you haven't already), and connect with other service dog handlers that can encourage and support you on your journey.
We also suggest you get a copy or two of this book (click the link below to go directly to checkout) to help those around you better understand the journey you're about to start on. As the author points out in the book, a supportive rope team is important - and the good news is that you can get Six Feet, now, at 40% off.
Six Feet to Independence is written as the book the author wishes she'd found when she was starting; the one that could've told her just how her life would change. The one she could hand to her family to show them the same; a book would be more impressive than her broken explanations. The book that could save her - and everyone around her - from pouring time and energy and money down the wrong path.
Six Feet to Independence is full of wisdom and insight from trainers, responsible breeders, handlers, and family members of handlers - all of whom answer the questions she didn't know to ask when starting.
Nota bene: Be sure to check your spam folder!
And! (Because more help is better than less, here,) the email we just sent you contains two links; one is the link to the book, and the other is a link to schedule a zoom call with the author to get any further questions answered. This link is good for the handler, family, or friends. (Limit: 3 calls per email sent out.)
Wishing you all the best with your continued adventure!
Get the book, now!
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