Selecting a Breed for Service Work In the service dog community, the phrase the “Fab Four” is used to refer to four breeds often chosen for service work: 1. Labrador Retrievers2. Golden …
Selecting a Service Dog Candidate: Key Traits, Behaviors and Public Access Suitability (Part 1)
Choosing a dog for service work is one of the most important — and challenging — decisions a service dog trainer can make. Service dogs must navigate complex environments, often in high-stress …
Challenging Conversations
When working with owner-trainers, service dog trainers may unfortunately find that clients have chosen a dog who is not appropriate to train for public access work. In some cases, the dog may be able …
Four Strategies for Service Dog Handlers When Encountering a Reactive Dog
With more locations becoming pet-friendly, service dog handlers are having more encounters with reactive dogs. Moreover, some service dogs themselves are selected inappropriately, and display reactive …
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Behavior Problems in Service Dog Candidates
One of the most difficult aspects of service dog work is trying to determine whether a behavior problem is something that can be addressed successfully or whether to career-change the service dog …
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Retiring a Service Dog: How Trainers Can Help
Retiring a service dog is an emotional topic for service dog handlers. Trainers can make a big difference in preparing and supporting handlers and their partners through this transition. Assessing …
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