Service dogs are life-changing partners for people with disabilities. They provide crucial assistance and support in everyday life. When acquiring a service dog, one of the most critical decisions is choosing how your service dog will be trained. Will you attempt owner training? Or will you opt for program training instead?
At Justice Speaks, we believe in empowering individuals with disabilities. We aim to provide clear and accessible information so people can make informed decisions about their unique needs. In this blog, we’ll discuss the differences between owner-trained and program-trained service dogs and the pros and cons of each approach.
What Is a Program-Trained Service Dog?
A program-trained service dog is trained by a professional organization or nonprofit specializing in training dogs for service work. These programs involve selecting dogs with the ideal temperaments, providing extensive training, and matching dogs with handlers based on need and compatibility.
Pros of Program-Trained Service Dogs:
- High-Quality Training – These are reputable training programs led by instructors who have years of experience and follow strict training guidelines.
- Professional Matching – Programs can carefully (and unbiasedly) evaluate the dog and the individual to ensure the perfect fit!
- Ongoing Support – Many programs offer follow-up training, handler education, and support after the service dog has been placed.
- Less Responsibility – Most training will be completed before the service dog is placed, taking the onus of training off the handler.
Program-Trained Service Dog Cons:
- Lengthy Waits – Many programs have long waitlists ranging from months to years!
- High Costs, Limited Availability – Some nonprofit organizations will offer dogs at low cost, but others may charge from $10,000 to over $50,000.
- Limited Customization – You may find your service dog has less personalized training when going the program-trained route.
What Is an Owner-Trained Service Dog?
An owner-trained service dog is trained by the handler, usually with support from a professional trainer. This training starts at puppyhood or an older age, depending on the dog’s aptitude. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), owner-training is legal and valid if the dog is adequately trained to perform specific tasks related to the individual’s disability.
Pros of Owner-Trained Service Dogs
- Customization – You can train your dog to suit your exact needs.
- Strong Bond – Training your dog one-on-one can lead to a deeper and more trusting relationship.
- Flexible Costs – Depending on your resources and your dog’s aptitude, owner training could be more affordable.
- No Wait – You can start the process on your timeline.
Owner-Trained Service Dog Cons
- Time Commitment – Training a service dog takes thousands of hours and 1-2 years of consistent, high-quality work.
- Training Challenges – Mistakes in training can limit a dog’s effectiveness or access in public.
- No Guarantee – No matter how much training they receive, not all dogs will have the temperament, health, or wit to become service dogs.
- Public Skepticism – Owner-trainers sometimes face scrutiny or discrimination due to stigma or misunderstandings.
Key Service Dog Training Considerations
It’s essential to consider the following when deciding on a service dog training option:
- Your Disability and Needs – Do you need your service dog trained in highly specialized tasks that require customization? Or would you prefer a service dog pre-trained in everyday tasks like mobility or seizure response?
- Your Experience Level – Have you ever trained a dog before? Will you need a professional trainer to assist you?
- Time and Resources – Do you have the time and consistency to commit to long-term training?
- Access to Support – Do you have access to reputable trainers or service dog organizations in your area?
Choose The Path That’s Right for You
Owner-training and program-training are legal and legitimate under the ADA. What is critical is that the service dog is:
- Trained to perform tasks directly related to your disability
- Under control in public at all times
- House trained and well-behaved
Whether you work with an organization or train your service dog yourself, the outcome should be a reliable partner who can support your independence and safety.
Choosing between an owner-trained and program-trained service dog is a deeply personal decision. You must consider what’s best for you, your needs, and your lifestyle. At Justice Speaks, we stand behind all legitimate service dog teams and are proud to advocate for their rights. Regardless of how your service dog is trained, your civil liberties and access rights are protected under the law!
