Should I train my dog to be a service dog?

A service dog is a dog who has been trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. Federal laws offer protection under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and most states offer protection, too.

If you're thinking about training your dog to become a service dog, there are several questions you should ask yourself.

What type of service dog will my dog be?

There are many different types of service dogs. For example:

Guide dogs who help visually impaired individuals navigate their environments Mobility dogs who assist individuals who use wheelchairs or walking devices Medical alert dogs who assist individuals with medical issues, such as seizures

Consider researching the responsibilities these different service dogs perform before you embark on your training journey.

Is my dog healthy?

Service dogs are expected to be alert and responsive to any request for assistance. It's important that you take your dog to regular checkups to the vet to make sure they're healthy. Conditions such as arthritis can affect dogs and affect their mobility. If your dog's health isn't the best, consider talking to your vet to discuss ways to improve your dog's health and nutrition.

How's my dog's temperament?

Your dog's temperament can affect their ability to be a successful service dog. If your dog is calm in unfamiliar situations, alert but not reactive, and eager to please, she'll probably be a great service dog. If your dog has a sharp temper, acts out, or you struggle to get their attention, they might not be a good candidate.

Best service dog breeds

Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, and German shepherd dogs are very popular breeds. All three breeds are very smart, attentive, and friendly. But they aren't the only breeds best suited for service dog training. See this (post)[https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/most-popular-service-dog-breeds/] from the American Kennel Club for more information about popular service dog breeds.