Dog Breeds & Behavior

How long does it take to train a Service Dog?

There is no exact set time for training an adult service dog once they have completed their early socialization, 

Puppy Raisers are responsible for the socialization, house training, and basic obedience training  of Better Togethers puppies-in-training.

Obedience Training: Puppies start obedience training classes provided by Better Together or affiliated trainers very early to begin introducing basic obedience commands, set socialization goals, and connect as a group to solve and prevent common puppy issues. Puppy Raisers are required to commit to weekly classes for the first 12 weeks and then class every other week thereafter. Classes must be attended throughout the puppy placement period, starting at a beginner level up to more advanced classes.

Socialization: Puppy raisers are also required to attend several “social outings” held in various public environments with Better Together or affiliated puppy training instructors. For example, the puppy training instructors may schedule outings to shopping malls, parks, pet stores, or restaurants. Puppies must be socialized a minimum of six hours per week.

  but service dog programs will have very clear training plans for every dog. In general, adult dogs will undergo specific training (obedience, task work etc) for 1-4 hours a day for a period of around 6 months before they are matched with their future owner.

 

BETTER TOGETHER THE CANADIAN POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER SERVICE DOG ASSOCIATION