ABOVE A service dog provides deep pressure therapy after a PTSD nightmare. Service dogs are more than furry companions; they're lifesavers, offering independence and support to individuals with disabilities. But just like any professional, a service dog's effectiveness relies on continuous training and skill refinement. This list explores 100+ potential areas to focus on, categorized by core service dog functions, to help you unlock your canine partner's full potential. Obedience and Focus Solid "stay" with distractions: Train a reliable "stay" amidst increasing distractions, building impulse control. "Leave it" on command: Ensure the dog disengages from tempting objects or situations. Recall with variations: Practice recall from various distances and in distracting environments. Heel with position changes: Maintain a consistent heel position while you stop, turn, or change pace. "Wait" at doorways: Teach the dog to wait patiently before entering or exiting doorways. Leash manners: Refine loose leash walking and prevent pulling on the leash. Focus in crowded environments: Maintain focus amidst crowds, loud noises, and other stimuli. Ignore distractions: Train the dog to ignore barking dogs, people approaching, or other distractions. "Touch" command: Teach the dog to gently nudge your hand with its nose for communication. "Target" command: Train the dog to touch a specific target with its nose to initiate commands. Directional commands: Refine commands like "left," "right," "forward," and "back." Duration commands: Extend the duration the dog holds commands like "sit" or "stay." Distraction proofing basic commands: Practice obedience commands with increasing distractions. Door opening and closing: Train the dog to open or close doors with a gentle nudge. Light switch activation: Teach the dog to turn lights on or off using a switch. Object retrieval: Train the dog to retrieve specific objects on command. Balance assistance: Refine balance support techniques, such as bracing against your leg. Retrieving dropped items: Improve the dog's ability to pick up and bring you dropped objects. Obstacle course navigation: Practice navigating an obstacle course to enhance agility and focus. "Go find" command: Train the dog to locate a specific person or object on cue. Mobility and Balance Assistance Bracing for transfers: Refine the dog's technique for assisting with transfers from chairs, beds, or toilets. Stair climbing assistance: Practice safe stair climbing with the dog's support. Pulling a wheelchair: Train the dog to safely pull a wheelchair on various terrains. Counterbalance support: Improve the dog's ability to provide counterbalance while standing. Helping you stand up: Train the