How to Run Dog Certification Training

Running a service dog training program takes patience and resolve. There is no standard certification process in the United States. However, there are general requirements that must be met by dogs who qualify as service animals. The layout of the training site will determine the number of dogs and their owners that can be accommodated. Leashes, harnesses and other training tools are kept onsite to assist in the training process. Trainers can certify dogs in a number of different service orientations. Dogs who have been trained to be of service to people with physical disabilities can qualify for certification and be awarded the designation of service dogs after demonstrating the ability to perform certain duties.

Things You'll Need

  • Training site
  • Leash
  • Harness
  • Dog vest or cape
  • Certificate
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Instructions

    • 1

      Earn certification as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer -- Knowledge Assessed from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Demonstrate that you meet the criteria necessary for CPDT-KA certification: a minimum of 300 hours training dogs over the course of five years; a high school diploma or GED; and references from a veterinarian or client. To earn this designation, you also must demonstrate your dog training skills by passing the organization's certification exam for professional dog trainers. These exams are given twice a year across the U.S. and Canada (see Resources 1).

    • 2

      Develop a training program tailored to a number of disciplines. Standards set by Assistance Dogs International Inc. (see Resources 2, 3 and 4) offer basic guidelines for training dogs for a variety of services. Teach service dogs to assist owners who are blind, deaf or wheelchair-bound with such tasks as avoiding obstacles, navigating traffic, alerting their owners to doorbells and alarms they cannot hear or to do basic household chores. Training the dogs to perform designated tasks should be done over a period of 4 to 12 months, depending on the type and level of assistance their owners will need.

    • 3

      Certify the dogs under the ADI standards for their ability to obey commands and perform at least three tasks without being distracted by other people or animals. Test the service dog by having it perform tasks specific to its skills, including guiding the blind, responding to an alarm for someone who's deaf or turning on a light switch for someone wheelchair-bound. Coach the dog and its owner on a monthly basis for six months after training is completed. Service dogs also must be provided with identifying harness and vest or cape, as well as an ID card.