From Companion to Service Training Your Own Service Dog.

From Companion to Service Training Your Own Service Dog: Clear, step‑by‑step methods for how to train a service dog on your own. Practical tips, common mistakes to avoid, and quick wins to build...

1. From Companion to Service
Training Your Own Service Dog

2. Why Train Your Own Service Dog?
Deeper bond and understanding between you and your dog
$
Cost-effective alternative to professionally trained dogs
($20,000-$30,000)
Customized training specific to your unique needs
No waiting lists that can extend 2-5 years
Challenge: Requires time, patience, and consistent effort

3. Understanding Service Dogs: Roles & Requirements
Medical Alert & Response
Seizure detection, diabetic alert, allergy detection
Guide & Navigation
Visual impairment assistance, mobility support
Psychiatric Support
PTSD, anxiety, autism support
Physical Assistance
Item retrieval, door opening, balance supportUnder the ADA, service dogs are legally permitted to accompany their handlers
in all public spaces and are not considered pets.

4. Key Traits & Temperament Assessment

Calm Temperament

Focus & Trainability

Non-Reactive

Physical Capability

Work Drive
Assessment Tip
Work with a professional dog trainer to evaluate your dog's temperament
using standardized tests like the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test as a
starting point.Ability to remain composed in various environments and situations Capacity to maintain attention and learn new tasks despite distractions Minimal response to startling stimuli, other animals, or unusual
situations Size, strength, and health appropriate for required tasks Motivation to perform tasks and willingness to work

5. Basic Obedience: The Foundation
1Reliable Recall
Coming when called 100% of the time, even with distractions
2Heel Position
Walking calmly beside you without pulling, even in busy
environments
3Extended Stays
Holding sit, down, and stand positions until released, regardless of
distractions
4Leave It & Drop It
Ignoring or releasing items on command for safety in all
environments
5Place Command
Going to a designated spot and staying there until released
Master these basics before moving to task-specific training!

6. Advanced Task Training
Medical Response Tasks
Alert to changes in blood sugar or seizures
Retrieve medication or medical devices
Mobility Assistance
Retrieve dropped items or open doors
Provide balance support or help with dressing
Psychiatric Support
Interrupt anxiety behaviors or provide deep pressure
Create space in crowds or guide to exit
Task Training Method: Backchaining
Start by teaching the final step of a complex task, then gradually add earlier
steps. This builds confidence as your dog always finishes with a familiar,
successful action.

7. Socialization & Public Access Training
People Exposures
Different ages, genders, appearances
People using mobility aids or equipment
Environments
Stores, restaurants, public transit
Different floor surfaces, elevators, stairs
Sounds & Sensations
Traffic, crowds, machinery, appliances
Weather conditions, temperature changes
Progressive Exposure
Start with low-distraction environments and gradually increase difficulty.
Always end sessions on a positive note with success.

8. Continuous Learning & Certification
Voluntary Certifications
Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Public Access Test (PAT), ADI
certification
Ongoing Training
Regular practice sessions, skill maintenance, and task refinement
Documentation
Training logs, health records, and public access work
documentation
Legal Reminder
While certification is not legally required in the US under the ADA, your dog
must be trained to perform specific tasks related to your disability and
behave appropriately in public.

9. Your Journey Together

Patience & Consistency
Training a service dog takes time—typically 1-2 years of dedicated
work.

Unique Bond
The connection you develop through training creates an
unparalleled partnership.

Support Network
Connect with trainers, veterinarians, and other service dog
handlers.
"The journey of training your own service dog is challenging
but incredibly rewarding—transforming both your life and
your dog's purpose."

10. Get Your Complete Guide Today!
Training Your Companion Dog for
Service
The comprehensive guide that takes you step-by-step
through the entire process of training your own service dog,
from selection to certification.
Detailed task training instructions for 30+ service tasks
Troubleshooting guides for common training challenges
Legal documentation templates and certification guidance
CLICK HERE TO GET THE EBOOK 