Can a Service Dog Compete in Dog Sports?

Yes, a service dog may also participate in dog sports when the dog and handler meet the event's rules.

Olivia Williams
Published August 15, 2023

10 Things Service-Dog Handlers Want You to Know

No dog is infallible. It must be housebroken and under control, and handlers need backup assistance when it cannot work.

Kea Grace
Published November 30, 2022

Handling a Service-Dog Access Challenge

An access challenge can be stressful. You are not responsible for educating everyone or representing every other service-dog team.

Lisa A Faulkner
Published June 3, 2022

Service Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Emotional Support Animals and Facility Dogs

These terms describe different roles. A dog's friendly behavior, vest or registration does not establish a legal category.

Kea Grace
Published February 10, 2022

Service Dog Behavior in Public: Rules and Practical Skills

Understand U.S. ADA rules and practical public-access skills, with examples for queues, cafés, distractions and responding when an outing becomes too much.

Kea Grace
Published December 20, 2021

Mobility Assistance Dogs: Tasks, Safety and Care

A mobility assistance dog can help with disability-related tasks that reduce reaching, bending or repeated trips.

Kea Grace
Published December 11, 2021

Service Dogs in Hospitals: Access and Care Planning

Service dogs generally may accompany people with disabilities in hospitals and other healthcare settings, including patient rooms and inpatient stays.

Kea Grace
Published January 2, 2020

Five Foundation Skills for a Service Dog in Training

Good training starts with small skills you can use every day. Help your dog tune in, settle comfortably, and move with you before taking on bigger lessons.

Kea Grace
Published September 17, 2019

What Training Do Service Dogs Need?

For many Service Dogs, training begins in puppyhood. Most of the puppy training for Service Dogs consists of the same type of skills all well-behaved dogs learn…

Kea Grace
Published September 16, 2019

5 Tips for Attending School with Your Service Dog

School goes more smoothly when you plan for both your classes and your dog's needs.

Devon MacPherson
Published August 14, 2019