How to Apply For Our Service Dog Private Training Program

STEP 1: ensure eligibility

  •  Legally disabled per the ADA (in the u.s.) or per your country’s service dog laws
  •  For U.S. residents: read through the Service Dog overview on the ADA website.
  • Dog is at least 4 months, and less than 5 years old (if less than 4 months, book puppy training) 
  • Dog has no major behavioral problems and has a sound temperament (see chart below) 
  • You are committed to training up to two years
  • You are able to send status updates 1x per week 

A Note on Service Dog Suitability:

Our goal is always to set you and your dog up for success. The initial temperament assessment (more info on last step) helps us identify whether your dog shows potential for service work, and we’ll share our honest, professional feedback with you.

That said, because dogs are living, sentient beings, things like genetics, life experiences, or unexpected events can sometimes influence their long-term suitability: even if they pass the first evaluation. If that happens, we’ll work with you to explore the best next steps, whether that’s continuing with modified goals (in-home service dog work), focusing on other training paths, or supporting you in finding the right service dog partner.

TEMPERAMENT VS TRAINABLE Temperament: Any unwanted behaviors due to pain/underlying medical reason May not be a good fit Excessive whining toward triggers Any aggressive behaviors/biting Nervous being handled by strangers (no aggression) Likes to chase squirrels but will still eat treats Excessive anxiety/prey drive Genetically, they aren’t a good fit for SD work A traumatic event happens to your dog. *This is a general list but not a guarantee. Generally ‘Trainable’ Jumping when you come home Eating food off the ground when you don’t say ‘leave it’ in time Rushing through doorways Barking when you’re not focused on them

STEP 2: watch the informational video

STEP 3: REVIEW PRICE ESTIMATES

Price can vary greatly depending on:

  • You + your dog’s existing skills 
  • How much support you will need (i.e., if you already have a training background, have experience with clicker training, etc.) 
  • How much support you want (i.e., for CO residents, you can have the trainer come to your house multiple times per week to do SOME of the ‘homework’/training on your behalf) and/or practice outings. 

That’s why I created this guide on how much training COULD cost depending on what “phase” of dog training you are in.  Remember: this is an ESTIMATE for total training costs. You also are not paying ALL at once – typically monthly. 

Keep in mind that there will be other costs associated with general care of your SD as well as other items like a custom mobility dog harness depending on your needs. 

STEP 4: SUBMIT application & prepare required documentation

Before we begin working together, you’ll complete our application and prep any necessary prep materials including:

  • A doctor’s note confirming your diagnosis/disability

  • Recent veterinary exams to confirm overall health and ability to work – we can email this form directly to your veterinarian.

  • For mobility service dogs: PennHIP or OFA hip evaluations

Please carve out at least 20 minutes to fill out the application. 

After reviewing, we will reply within 3 business days with either:

1. Link to book your consultation + temperament test OR
2. Recommendations for additional training before re-applying. 

Documentation must be submitted BEFORE we begin officially training. 

We may recommend additional behavioral modification training for those who need additional support.