Service Dog Training Basics Tips

Service Dog Training Tips

Service Dog Training Basics: Training a service dog is not easy; it takes years of dedication and ranks "moderate" on the difficulty scale; however, a properly trained service dog is a valuable resource for people with physical handicaps (such as the visually and hearing impaired, as well as those who suffer from seizures).

 

Training can begin early, when the pup is two months old, and normally takes two years to complete. Put a collar on him as soon as you get him home. This helps him to become used to it, as it will become a very vital element of the training sessions. In addition to the collar, it is also vital to allow the pup to become familiar with his vest, which will be worn during service. Everyone will know he is "working" if he wears a service vest, which is often hefty and well-made with pockets and/or handles. At first, the vest might make some dogs anxious, so only put it on for a few minutes and treat them for the time they stay quiet while wearing it.

 

Training sessions should be between 10 and 15 minutes long; young dogs (like young children) have a short attention span. Obviously, you must start with the fundamental instructions such as sit, down, stay, come. As always, in any training process, lots of praise and awards are terrific positive reinforcement. Once easy instructions are mastered, it will be time to move on to harder ones like "hold it" and "pick it up".

 

While pushing a tiny object or a wooden dowel towards the mouth, tell your dog to "take." A dab of peanut butter on the object is okay to make it more attractive. Praise should quickly follow the taking of the dowel and then release it from their hands. Once "hold" is a mastered command, set the little object on a table and give the instruction to "pick it up". Once a dowel is mastered, use additional things (such as a pencil, remote control, or clothes) so they will be trained to pick up anything that you desire.

 

Because a service dog comes into contact with a variety of people and places on a regular basis, it is critical that they become knowledgeable and comfortable in a variety of situations.According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, a properly qualified service dog is allowed on any aircraft.

 

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