Service Dog Criteria

Any dog assisting a person with a disability is considered to be a service dog under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. Service dogs can accompany owners into any publicly accessible space and may live with them in "no pet" accommodations.

  1. Health

    • Service dogs must be in top health and physical condition. They cannot suffer from, or be at high risk for, debilitating canine diseases or illnesses.

    Temperament

    • "The dog will not be effective as a service dog if it is aggressive, fearful, inconsistent or excitable," according to the website Service Dogs.

    Obedience

    • Owners must have full control of service dogs at all times. "While out in public," Service Dogs America notes on its website, service dogs "must obey [owners'] commands and not be distracted by outside influences, noise or other animals and people."

    Gender

    • Males and females make equally proficient service dogs. Spaying and neutering lowers hormonal influences that interfere with concentration and ability to work.

    Breed

    • Some service dog providers prefer certain breeds but generally, any breed or crossbreed is acceptable. The dog's temperament and size however, must match the tasks required.

    Age

    • Usually, dogs must be between18 months and 2 years of age to begin working. Most retire at age 8 or 9 but can work longer if their health permits.