When it comes to the proper treatment of individuals with disabilities, a service dog can be a valuable friend to have. With such a valuable ally on one’s side, a person’s quality of life increases vastly and they allow the disabled individual the potential to take part in things that would be difficult or next to impossible to do by themselves It is crucial for service dogs to be trained properly by a professional in order for them to be a dependable cornerstone in a disabled person’s life.
Service dogs can fulfill a multitude of tasks, from leading the blind to their destination all the way to alerting their masters when a telephone is ringing in their home. These sorts of functions require structured and meticulous training methods in order for each animal to achieve their maximum potential.
Service dog trainers are tasked with teaching each individual dog in the best method possible so that they can serve their owners well and in a way that best assists their particular disability. Selecting the wrong kind of service dog expert can only cause someone more trouble down the line. By doing ample research prior to the dog’s training, you can avoid this eventuality.
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A Small List of Qualities to Look For in a Service Dog Trainer
While the ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) doesn’t specifically require a service dog to be trained in a professional manner, choosing the right trainer for your dog is still encouraged and worth taking seriously. If you’re interested in pursuing service dog training for your faithful pal, here are a few ways to determine the right trainer for you!
1. Check Out the Facility First
Visiting the facility your dog might be trained is a good idea before signing on the dotted line. Meet with some of the trainers and express any concerns you may have. Also, be sure to observe the conditions of the facility itself. Is it clean? Do the dogs seem to be in good spirits, or do they seem overly timid and almost frightened of their trainers?
2. Educational Background
There are many dog trainer certification programs out there, however, be aware that not every state makes it a requirement for a service dog trainer to actually have professional certification. The ones that do have certification stand above the rest in terms of dedication to their craft. Be sure to enquire about each trainer’s educational history when determining the right trainer for you. Here is a list of possible certifications.
3. Take A Look At Their Better Business Bureau Listing
One of the best ways to review a service dog training group is to see if they are available for viewing on the Better Business Bureau website. If there are any grievous complaints against the particular organization you are researching, user reviews on there will indicate it… sometimes in a blunt manner!
Service Dog Trainers By State
The below list highlights our top picks for service dog trainers by state. For each state below, we’ve included a summary of some of our favorite service dog trainers. Each section concludes with a link to our dedicated service dog training article for that state. These dedicated state articles explore the unique considerations for service dog training in a specific state, and take a detailed look at the pros and cons for each of our top training picks.
Alabama
Service Dogs Alabama
8365 Mobile Highway
Hope Hull, AL 36043
(334) 676-3733
Email: [email protected]
Service Dogs Alabama are dedicated to training medical/psychiatric service dogs for adults, children, and veterans. They also make an effort to train behavior dogs for high-stress environments, such as schools and courtrooms. They generally have at least 50 dogs in the process of training with a waiting period of around 18 months or less.
Alabama Dog Academy
Harvest, AL 35749
(256) 434-1747
[email protected]
Alabama Dog Academy is led by expert Elizabeth Morgan, who has been training service dogs for more than 15 years. It offers a comprehensive service dog training program that is custom-made to client requirements, and includes a minimum of 16 training sessions.
Namaste Dog Training
Bremen, AL 35033
[email protected]
Namaste Dog Training is run by multiple experienced trainers, including co-owner Wendy who has been training for more than 30 years. They offer one-on-one service dog training classes, either done at your home or in public to prepare for public access.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Alabama.
Alaska
Alaska Dog Works
9475 N. Sue Dr.
Willow, AK 99688
1-907-841-1686
[email protected]
Alaska Dog Works focuses on psychiatric-level service dogs, specifically for ex-military members.
P.O. Box 771393
Eagle River, AK 99577
907-250-7252
[email protected]
Midnight Sun Service Dogs is a veteran-owned and volunteer-ran nonprofit organization that specializes in service, facility, companion, and therapy dogs for wounded/traumatized veterans, especially veterans who suffer from PTSD. Their current president April Gettys is certified by the American Kennel Club as a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Alaska.
Arizona
All 4 Paws Training
3330South Price Road #106,
Tempe, Arizona 85282
(480) 256-9443
[email protected]
All 4 Paws Training provides specialist training serivces, including a comprehensive service dog training program. The founder, Myra Markley, has her own service dog, so she personally understands how much a service dog can improve a life.
AZ Dog Sports (AZDS)
12639 N. 48th St.
Phoenix, AZ 85032
[email protected]
AZDS runs a rigorous service dog program, in addition to training dogs for competitions. It focuses on service dogs for PTSD, other psychiatric conditions, mobility impairments, and diabetes, and their program adheres to strict guidelines set forth by the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.
Dogs4Vets
3249 S. Lindsay Rd.
Gilbert, AZ 85297
(480) 802-9339
[email protected]
Dogs4Vets is a non-profit organization that trains service dogs for vetereans with disabilities, both physical and psychiatric. They strive to train the veteran’s current dog, when possible, and will supply a puppy from a local shelter, if needed. They place service animals with over 100 veterans each year, for no cost to the veterans.
K9 Paws Behavior Dog Training
Golden Valley, AZ 86413
(928) 530-4605
[email protected]
K9 Paws Behavior Dog Training. Their current lead director Marsha Tonkinson is certified by the American Kennel Club as a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. She is also a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals. They focus primarily on PTSD service dog training for veterans.
Prescott K9 Academy
1345 S. Iron Springs Rd.
Skull Valley, Arizona 86338
(928) 443-0386
Prescott K9 Academy trains service dogs that are adept at offering psychiatric support functions, seizure awareness, PTSD support, and much more.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Arizona.
Arkansas
Wright Way Assistance Animals
4419 W 22nd St
Little Rock, AR 72204
United States
(702) 827-8941
Write Way offers service animal training to families who have low-income.
Arkansas Service Dogs
Jacksonville Cato Rd
Sherwood, Arkansas 72120
(904) 229-3533
Arkansas Service Dogs handspicks potential service dogs from approved breeders, and then trains them to help with a range of disabilities, including PTSD, epilepsy, autism, diabetes, and mobility impairments. They also offer a discount for low-income families.
Pathways to Peace SDT
Hot Springs, AR
(315) 489-8312
[email protected]
Pathways to Peace SDT specializes in training service dogs, and offers a more flexible training program than most others. They allow you to train your own dog or select one from an approved breeder, they offer a budget-friendly group class option, and they allow you to train either online or in-person.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Arkansas.
California
Canine Companions for Independence
CCI National Headquarters
Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446
P.O. Box 446
1-866-CCI-DOGS (224-3647)
Canine Companions for Independence is a nonprofit organization that trains service dogs for children, adults, veterans and even professional services such as the health and criminal justice industries. They also provide free service dog access to low-income individuals.
Little Angels Service Dogs
PO Box 219
Jamul, CA 91935
1-800-528-9550
Little Angels Service Dogs provides service animal training for seizures, mobility aid, autism aid, mental health assistance, and more.
California Service Dog Academy
Visalia, California
(866) 382-9917
California Service Dog Academy helps veterans with disabilities train their own service dog, or provides them with a pre-trained service dog. For those that qualify for their veteran’s program, the service dog will be provided at no cost.
Service Dog Tutor Service Dog Training
San Francisco, CA
(650) 593-9622
[email protected]
Service Dog Tutor Service Dog Training is run by Jean Cary, an industry professional with over 30 years of experience. Depending on how much time you’re able to put into the program, you can have your service dog trained in as little as 6 months.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in California.
Colorado
Canine Partners of the Rockies
651 Potomac Street
E Aurora, CO 80011
303-364-9040
Canine Partners of the Rockies primarily trains mobility service dogs that help individuals get hold of objects, help with wheelchair pulling, opening and closing doors, barking for assistance, and much more. They also provide training for professional individuals who work with disabled people on the regular.
Mountain High Service Dogs
PO Box 0721, Palmer Lake, CO 80133
(719) 440-8282
[email protected]
Mountain High Service Dogs utilize a bond-based choice style of teaching and provides service dogs for individuals with extreme allergies, epilepsy, autism, diabetes, and PTSD.
Faithfully K9
25587 Conifer RD Unit 105 #129
Conifer, CO 80433
(720) 934-7378
[email protected]
Faithfully K9 specializes in training service dogs for those with PTSD or mobility issues. They also only work with those who have served in the military, and they require proof of both your service and your medical diagnosis.
Guardian Service Dogs
3634 Jeannine Dr
Colorado Springs, CO 80917
(719) 465-7219
[email protected]
While Guardian Service Dogs specializes in helping veterans with disabilities, they’ll also help non-military citizens get the support they need as well. They’ve also partnered with several organizations that offer scholarships that their clients can apply for.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Colorado.
Connecticut
LEDR Dog Training
Windsor, CT
860-580-9588
[email protected]
LEDR Dog Training can help train service animals to help with mobility problems and balance concerns, vision issues, PTSD, anxiety and hearing disorders.
Educated Canines Assisting With Disabilities
149 Newfield Rd
Winsted, CT 06098
(860) 489-6550
Contact Form
Educated Canines Assisting With Disabilities is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to training service animals that assist individuals with mobility problems, such as stroke victims.
The Exceptional SideKick Service Dogs
3 Simm Lane
Newtown, CT 06470
Contact Form
The Exceptional SideKick Service Dogs is a non-profit organization that provides fully trained service dogs to young adults and adolescents with psychiatric disabilities. The service dogs are each trained in a custom program tailored to the youth they’ll be placed with, and they also offer an owner training service dog program.
Sharron Lang
Brookfield, CT 06804
Contact Form
Sharron Long is an independent service dog trainer who provides training through the Petworks platform, which allows her to offer lower rates. She’s a certified trainer, and can develop programs for those with mental or physical disabilities, and trains t her home, the client’s home, and public access locations.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Connecticut.
Florida
Service Dogs of Florida
Winter Garden, Florida
1-855-SDFL-HELP
[email protected]
Service Dogs of Florida has a multitude of service dog training areas, from mobility, hearing and seizure prediction services, all the way to diabetic support dogs. They are a nonprofit organization and subsist on donations from the general public.
New Horizons
1590 Laurel Park Ct.
Orange City, FL 32763
(386) 456-0409
[email protected]
New Horizons is a volunteer-run, non-profit organization that prepares fully trained service dogs to help people who have mobility impairments, though veterans with disabilites and children with autism are also eligible to apply.
Jeanine’s Professional Dog Training
Sarasota, FL
(941) 371-5174
[email protected]
Jeanine is an independent dog trainer who offers both service dog training for pre-selected puppies, as well as for your own dog, as long as they have passed teh Good Canine Citizen test and are between the ages of 18 months and 4 years.
Genesis Assistance Dogs, Inc.
P.O. Box 3101
West Palm Beach, FL 33402
(561) 329-0277
Contact Form
Genesis Assistance Dogs, Inc. focuses solely on giving assistance dogs to people who have mobility issues. Since they’re funded exclusively through donations and all the staff are volunteers, the service dogs are offered at no charge – and life-long support for the service dog is also provided for free.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Florida.
Georgia
Peach on a Leash
Serving the areas of: Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek, Cumming, Sandy Springs, Peachtree Corners, Dunwoody, Canton, Woodstock, East Cobb, Chamblee, Brookhaven, Decatur, Midtown Atlanta, Buckhead
[email protected].
Peach on a Leash trains service dogs for PTSD and panic attack support, mobility services, guide dogs for the blind, as well as seizure and autism response dogs. They take payment plans and offer a veteran/law enforcement discount.
Paws for Life USA
3100 Roswell Road, Suite 125
Marietta GA 30062
770-402-0297
[email protected]
Paws for Life USA has an extensive ADA screening process. They provide service dog training for most kinds of disabilities, including neurological, autism, mobility issues, diabetes and more.
Ranger Dog Training
2674 Kiser Ave.
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
(404) 309-6730
[email protected]
Ranger Dog Training was started by retired serviceman Ken Cappello. He specializes in training service dogs that help with POTS, PTSD, and mobility impairments. Also, veterans are eligible for a no-cost service dog, though the waiting list for that can be long.
Comprehensive Pet Therapy
Atlanta, GA
(404) 236-2150
[email protected]
Comprehensive Pet Therapy has served over 50,000 dog owners, and has been recognized by both People Magazine and the New York Times best-selling book, Doctor Dogs. CPT offers an in-house boarding program, and they also have a less expensive hand-on program that allows you to train your own pup under their expert guidance.
Canine Assistants
3160 Francis Road
Milton, Georgia 30004
(770) 664-7178
[email protected]
Canine Assistants is a non-profit organization that places fully trained service dogs to those with epilepsy/seizure disorder, type 1 diabetes, or mobility impairments, though they may consider those with other special needs on a case-by-case basis.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Georgia.
Hawaii
Balanced Obedience
2440 Campus Rd Ste 308
Honolulu, HI 96822
808-358-9190
[email protected]
Balanced Obedience offers service dog training after a dog completes their obedience training course. The fee is $700. The total training time is around 120 hours, with 30 of those spent in public areas.
Hawaii Fi-Do Service Dogs
PO Box 757
Kahuku, Hawaii 96731
808 638-0200
[email protected]
Hawaii Fi-Do Service Dogs pre-trains different kinds of service dogs for individuals on a waiting list that have met ADA standards for requiring a service animal. Each individual is then given six months to see if their new service dog is fitting their needs.
Assisstance Dogs of Hawaii
P.O. Box 1803
Makawao, HI 96768
Contact Form
Assisstance Dogs of Hawaii places service animals for free, since they rely on community donations to fund their program. They’re fully accredited with Assistance Dogs International, and they cater exclusively to those with spinal injuries, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, or multiple sclerosis.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Hawaii.
Idaho
Saragold Kennels
3817 N 2500 E
Filer, ID 83328
(208) 736-0917
[email protected]
Saragold Kennels offers assistance in picking out a puppy to train, and then helps people train their own service animals. They also make sure the service dogs are tested with nationally recognized tests, which can help in the case of any legal disputes.
Valor K9 Academy
226 Winding Ridge Drive,
Horseshoe Bend, Idaho 83629
(208) 577-0744
[email protected]
Valor K9 Academy can help those who need a dog trained to assist with PTSD or TBIs, as well as those who need mobility support or medical alert dogs. They can work with your own dog, or help you pick out a puppy that they then will put through their four-week board-and-train program before beginning private lessons.
Puppy Steps Training
161 1300 E,
Lewiston, UT 84320
(208) 339-0032
[email protected]
While it’s technically in Utah, Puppy Steps Training is near enough to the border that they’re still one of the best options in Idaho. Their program is primarily for puppies, and typically takes around six to eight weeks long to complete.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Idaho.
Illinois
Committed Canine
1399 E 1900 Ave
Browntown, IL 62418
(618) 427-3333
[email protected]
Committed Canine is a veteran-owned service dog training organization that trains service dogs based on the client’s individual needs.
SIT Service Dogs
519 Kilpatrick Rd
Ava, Illinois 62907
(618) 426-5666
[email protected]
SIT Service Dogs trains mobility assistance, seizure response, neurological and generalized medical alert service dogs. They keep their operation smaller so that they can provide higher-quality, individually-catered support to their clients.
Paws Giving Independence
PO Box 9572
Peoria, IL 61612
(309) 839-2754
[email protected]
Paws Giving International is a passionate non-profit that places service animals,
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Illinois.
Indiana
Indiana Canine Assistance Network (ICAN)
5610 Crawfordsville Rd, Suite 2101
Indianapolis, IN 46224
(317) 672-3860
[email protected]
ICAN is a nonprofit organization that is accredited by the Assistance Dogs International foundation (ADI). They are the only service dog org in Indiana to have this distinction.
Lee’s Dog Training
2574 E 300 N
Huntington, IN 46750
(260) 238-8675
[email protected]
This program is run by Lee Seibold, an academic superstar who offers service dog training for those with hearing or mobility issues. He’ll work with you own dog, if you prefer, and only does one-on-one classes. Plus, numerous national charities have gone to him for help training service dogs for veterans, so you can feel confident in his skills.
Medical Mutts
6120 Allisonville Road
Indianapolis, IN 46220
(317) 991-5400
[email protected]
Medical Mutts uses an ethical, science-based approach to help those with various disbabilities, including diabetes, epilepsy, autism, and mobility impairments. They’re service dog training program is very comprehensive and requires more than 120 hours over the course of 6-12 months.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Indiana.
Iowa
Deafinitely Dogs! Service Dogs
2802 Lippisch Place SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Phone: (319) 930-DOGS (3647)
Email: [email protected]
Deafinitely Dogs! train service dogs for a multitude of disabilities and problems. They provide training for autism, mobility, diabetic alert, hearing, PTSD, and even companion dogs.
Knallhart Kennels & Training Academy
4434 Taft Ave SE
Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 573-2133
Email: [email protected]
Knallhart Kennels & Training Academy is a prestigious training organization that offers a board and train program to prepare service dogs for duty. They also offer free 15-minute consulations to help figure out exactly what kind of training you and your pup will need.
Iowa Service Dogs
PO Box 65056
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(515) 207-3324
[email protected]
Iowa Service Dogs is a non-profit organization that trains and places service dogs with both veterans and first responders with disabilities. Their in-depth program works with the client and the newly placed dog to help them learn how to work together and to continue training.
Paws-Effect
2629 Beaver Avenue Suite 11
Des Moines, IA 50310
(515) 822-5285
Contact Form
Paws-Effect is a long-standing non-profit organization that trains and places service dogs with children or veterans with disabilities. Their goal is to place these service animals at little to no cost to approved applicants, and they typically work with custom-bred puppies, but they can also sometimes work with your own dog.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Iowa.
Kansas
Mutt School
Salina, Manhattan, and Topeka, KS
(913) 717-6111
Contact Form
Mutt Schools can help you train your own dog to be a service dog, and they use only pain-free and fear-free methods to do so. They also offer discounts on continuing education, in case your pup needs a touch-up or you need them to learn to perform new service dog tasks.
Family Dog Training & Behavorial Center
3505 W. 30th Street
South Wichita, KS 67217
(316) 755-2839
[email protected]
Family Dog Training & Behavorial Center focuses on offering training for service dogs that help those with PTSD, and they’ll either help you find a dog to train or help you train your existing dog. Their owner, Kelly Spencer, is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, and works with Therapy Dogs International, the American Kennel Club, and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Kansas.
Kentucky
Pawsibilities Unleashed
363 Versailles Road, Suite E
Frankfort, KY 40601
866-411-7297
[email protected]
Pawsibilities Unleashed provides service dog training, a certification path, and even coverage with insurance for all therapy dogs. They mostly focus on training facility-based animals for specific functions in hospitals, convalescent centers, etc. They also provide generalized obedience training as well.
Artisan Dog Training
Nicholasville, KY
(859) 242-5264
[email protected]
Artisan Dog Training has been placing service dogs since 2008, and they aim to keep costs as low as possible by teaching their clients how to do most of the training themselves. Their program is fully customizable, and can be designed to help those with PTSD, autism, diabetes, hearing impairments, and mobility issues – though other disabilities may be considered as well.
Service Dogs by Moore Retrievers
3453 Highway 2565 (Joe Young Plaza)
PO Box 3
Louisa, KY 41230
(859) 287-4562
[email protected]
Service Dogs by Moore Retrievers is a well-established non-profit that trains service dogs to help those in need. Since it sources funding from community donations and corporate sponsorships, applicants only need to pay a portion of the cost. They can help those with PTSD, physical or hearing impairments, autism, or diabetes.
Pawsitive Purpose K9
Lexington, KY
(859) 333-3822
[email protected]
Pawsitive Purpose K9 is run by Tracey, a dog training expert with 13 years of experience – which started when she trained a service dog for her own son with autism. Her program typically lasts around 2 years, and involves the client doing much of the training themselves, and each program is customized ffor the applicants unique needs.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Kentucky.
Louisiana
Doggone Express
31058 Highway 1055
Mt. Hermon, LA 70450
504-239-0398
[email protected]
Doggone Express has a program called Companions for Life which provides trained service dogs with individuals based on their needs. Companions for Life is very affordable and individuals only have to pay a $150 adoption fee.
Hidden Haven Service Dog Training
Shreveport, LA
(318) 294-2323
[email protected]
The small non-profit specializes in training service dogs for both those with mental or physical disabilities. Since community donations fund most of the training, and the client does most of the training themselves, costs are kept to a minimum – thought they’re not entirely free. They priortize training first responders and children, though other adults will be considered as well.
Louisiana Warriors Unleashed
34905 Spring Trails Drive
Walker, LA 70785
(225) 402-2301
[email protected]
Louisiana Warriors Unleashed helps veterans and first responded who have emotional or psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and bipolar disorder. Volunteers do all the training, and they source funding from community donations, so all service dogs are placed free of charge.
Brothers and Sisters in Arms Dog Training
P.O. Box 622
Leesville, LA 71446
(337) 353-6782
Contact Form
Brothers and Sisters in Arms Dog Training that provides service dogs to first responders and veterans for no cost. However, citizens can be considered as well, though they will have to pay a fee. They offer service dogs to help with both physical and psychiatric conditions, including PTSD, military sexual trauma, and traumatic brain injuiry.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Louisiana.
Maine
Service Dog Strong
10 Stacy’s Way
Denmark, ME 04022
(207) 653-6497
[email protected]
Service Dog Strong is a non-profit that focuses on training animals to provide psychiatric support to suvivors of sexual assault. The service dogs are placed free of charge, thanks to community donations, and training is done over the course of 20 weeks, with weekly training sessions lasting four hours each.
K9s On the Front Line
Portland, ME
(855) 597-6835
[email protected]
K9s on the Front Line trains dogs to help support veterans with combat or service-related PTSD or a TBI. Service dogs are placed free of charge, after time spent on a waiting list. They have a comprehensive straining program that includes 300 hours of training, and they perform re-evaluations every 12 months.
College for Pets
223 Mount Prospect Rd
Holderness, NH 03245 (though they offer training in Maine)
(603) 536-4219
Contact Form
College for Pets’ training includes a combition of one-on-one training, group classes, video lessons, and online suppor. Their most comprehensive service dog training program includes a five-week board-and-train course. College for Pets will work with either pre-selected puppies or with approved adults dogs.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Maine.
Maryland
Fidos For Freedom
1200 Sandy Spring Rd.
Laurel, MD 20707
410-880-4178
301-490-4005
Contact Form
Fidos For Freedom offers both assistance dog programs as well as therapy dog programs. They do not train dogs, however, for the purposes of vision problems, autism, seizures, diabetes or mental health issues. They also will not train any private-owned animals.
Compass Key
Northern MD
484-643-8445
Contact Form
Compass Key, formerly PAWS Training Centers, is a multi-state service dog training company that trains currently owned privately purchased dogs so they can become service animals. They belong to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the Animal Assisted Intervention International (AAII) as well as the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP).
American K9
3869 Birdsville Road
Davidsonville, MD 21035
(240) 294-6162
Contact Form
American K9 runs an Owner Trainer Service Dog program, and they’re particularly well-known for assisting those with autism, depression, anxiety, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, traumatic brain injuries, diabetes, and spinal cord injuries.
Shore Service Dogs
PO Box 2251
Salisbury, MD 21802
info@ShoreServiceDogs
Shore Service Dogs rescues abandoned or abusined dogs, and then trains them to become service dogs. They focuses on helping those with mobility issues, and they don’t charge those in financial need – instead, their training is funded through chairties drives and community donations.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Maryland.
Massachusetts
NEADS World Class Service Dogs
305 Redemption Rock Trail South
Princeton, MA 01541
978-422-9064
Contact Form
NEADS World Class Service Dogs is a company that trains service dogs in a lot of different support functions. This includes training for deaf clients, PTSD children with autism and other disabilities of a physical nature, and much more. They do not currently provide programs for psychiatric or emotional support animals.
At Your Service Dog Training
Hadley/Northampton, MA
413-336-0598
[email protected]
Contact Form
At Your Service Dog Training provides service dog training with a primary focus on mobility assistance dogs as well as psychiatric care dogs. They also offer full room and board for any kind of dogs that reside outside of the MA region that pass the screening process.
Service Dog Academy
1632 Lakeview Dr
Waterloo, IL 62298
(206) 355-9033
[email protected]
Service Dog Academy offers both in-person and online training options, so that those with disabilities who prevent them from training in-person still can get the assistance they need. They also order board-and-train services, and they can also aquire previously trained service dogs as well.
Doggy U
[email protected]
Contact Form
Doggy U combines online learning with personalized attention, and they offer individualized consulting on all aspects of raising a service dog, including how to choose a prospective service dog all the way through training. They can help train for assistance with a variety of disabilities, including PTSD, anxiety, hearing, and mobility issues.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Massachusetts.
Michigan
Paws With a Cause
1328 Wheaton
Troy, MI 48083
248-619-9201
[email protected]
Paws With a Cause is a non-profit organization dedicated to training general service dogs, hearing dogs, seizure care dogs, and service dogs that assist children with autism. They also train facility-related service dogs to assist professionals in the healthcare industry
Sterling Service Dogs
3715 E. Fifteen Mile Rd.
Sterling Heights, Michigan 48310
586-883-2810
[email protected]
Sterling Service Dogs is a non-profit organization that endeavors to assist children and adults with disabilities reach a higher quality of life via the partnership with a well-trained service animal.
Clever Canine Dog Training
4396 Dixie Highway #8
Waterford, MI 48329
(248) 618-48329
[email protected]
Clever Canine Dog Training offers a comprehensive service dog training program. They focus on teaching training service dogs skills across five key pillars, including alertness, calmness, detection, retrieval, and support. They work almost exclusively with golden retrievers and Labradors.
Paradise Dog Training
PO Box 335
Fenton, MI 48430
(810) 714-4861
[email protected]
[email protected]
Headed up by the esteemed trained Lori, Paradise Dog Training has been helping those who need service dogs for over 25 years. They’re particularly well-known for training diabetic alert or hearing impaired service animals, though they can help with a wide variety of needs beyond that.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Michigan.
Minnesota
Can Do Canines
9440 Science Center Dr
New Hope, MN 55428
763-331-3000
Contact Form
Can Do Canines trains a variety of service animals. Hearing, mobility, seizure, diabetes and autism assistance dogs are their main focus. They do not focus on training dogs that assist in blindness, mental illness, or service dogs for the facility sector.
PawPADs Pawsitive Perspectives Assistance Dogs
9877 234th Street East
Lakeville, MN 55044-8299
612-643-5671
[email protected]
PawPADs Pawsitive Perspectives Assistance Dogs train a huge variety of service dogs depending on the needs of the client in question. They have a special focus on diabetic assistance dogs and generalized service dogs as well as facility-based service animals. They do not, however, train emotional support animals, service animals for the treatment of mental health problems or PTSD-related problems.
Helping Paws
630 12th Avenue South
Hopkins, MN 55343
952-988-9359
Contact Form
Helping Paws is an accredited Assistance Dogs International (ADI) member that has a special focus in training service dogs for veterans as well as first responders suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They cannot cater to clients needing a service dog for blindness assistance or hearing-related problems, however.
Aurum Canine Services
South Metro, Minnesota
(651) 600-1943
[email protected]
Contact Form
Autrum Canine Services was started by head trainer Dana Daniels, who has been in the animal training/medicine business since the mid-2000s. They exclusively train service dogs to help with psychiatric conditions, and each program is customized to the client’s needs. They’re careful to always conform to the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners’ guidelines.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Minnesota.
Mississippi
Hub City Service Dogs
6068 Hwy 98, Suite 1-126
Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39402
601-596-4495
[email protected]
Hub City Service Dogs, so far, is the only certified service dog training company in Mississippi. They focus on two primary sectors of service dogs, psychiatric support and diabetic alert.
The International K9 Foundation
2162 Hwy 98W
Summit, MS 39666
(601) 567-0013
[email protected]
The International K9 Foundation’s owner, Jeff McCall, has over 13 of experience training dogs, including military dogs. He focuses on working with veterans to train their service dogs to help with PTSD. They offer both an in-person and an online training option, as well.
Canine Coaching with Chris
Long Beach, MS
(575) 791-3874
[email protected]
Canine Coaching with Chris is headed by Chris Lamy, a trainer with more than 12 years of experience, including 5 years training military dogs. Their service dog training program can take as little as 3 weeks, and each program is tailored to the client’s individual needs.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Mississippi.
Missouri
CHAMP Assistance Dogs
1968 Craig Rd -Ste 200
St. Louis, MO 63146
314-485-1264
[email protected]
Champ Assistance Dogs is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization that trains four different kinds of assistance animals. They provide training for public access service dogs, home service dogs, home therapy dogs, and specialized facility dogs that work in professional areas like counselor offices and hospitals.
STLHuggs
St. Louis, MO
(314) 608-0370
STLHuggs is a non-profit that helps teach those with disabilities to train their dog to become a service dog. They work with those with specific disabilities, including autism, allergies, diabetes, mobility impairments, and visual/hearing loss. They’re lead by head trainer, Liz Johnston, who has 40 years of experience in the field.
Missouri Patriot Paws
Kansas City and St. Louis, MO
(573) 578-2141
[email protected]
Missouri Patriot Paws offers service dog trainer for first responders and veterans with PTSD or traumatic brain injuries. Most of their service dogs have been rescued from local shelters, though they may also work with your own dog. Since all their funding comes from community donations, they place their service dogs free of charge.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Missouri.
Montana
Wind River Canine Partners
5353 E. Carlton Creek Rd.
Florence, MT 59833
406 273-4899
[email protected]
Wind River Canine Partners offers service dog training on multiple levels. They can train for the purposes of mobility assistance, seizure care, diabetes, PTSD/anxiety issues, hearing issues and even train animals for clients that have severe forms of autism. They also are aware that there is no such thing as a “one size fits all” approach to training service animals and can train individually according to a client’s particular needs.
Firewind Training Kennels
Missoula, MT
(406) 549-2275
[email protected]
Contact Form
Firewind Training Kennels helps you to train a dog to become your service dog. This training can be done through boarding and training, private lessons, or a combination of both methods. They also only use positive training techniques that works with the dog’s motivations.
Bark 4 Joy Dog Training
Helena, MT
[email protected]
Bark 4 Joy helps those with disabilities train their own service dogs, including medical alert or medical response dogs, psychiatric service dogs, hearing assistance dogs, and mobility assistance dogs.
Dog Tag Buddies
924 Pine Ridge Ln #4
Billings, MT 59105
(406) 969-1227
[email protected]
Contact Form
Dog Tag Buddies is a non-profit organization who helps veterans train a dog to help with physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or mental disabilities. Since they’re a charitable organization, they sponsor the entire cost of training a service dog, and provides many of the necessities to care for the service dog, including food bowls, collars, crates, and leash, also for no cost.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Montana.
Nebraska
Dillon’s Dog Training, LLC,
3002 N 131 St, Omaha, NE 68164
402-517-8892
Contact Form
Dillon’s Dog Training offers a diverse range of training for your service dog needs. They can train diabetic alert dogs, oxygen assistance dogs, dogs trained in aiding seizure patients, psychiatric/PTSD care animals and much more.
Domesti-PUPS
141 Harwood Court
Lincoln, NE 685021-866-515-PUPS
402-465-4201
[email protected]
Domesti-PUPS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit org that trains therapy dogs, service dogs and even rescue dogs. Dogs trained here can focus on balance issues, wheelchair assistance, seizure care, and even diabetic alert procedures. They train service dogs for both children as well as adults.
Uplifting Paws
2019 P Street
Lincoln, NE 68503
(531) 510-0737
[email protected]
Uplifting Paws is a non-profit that offers fully trained service dogs for those with physical and psychiatric disabilities. It’s one of the most comprehensive training programs in the state, with a total of at least 600 hours of training done over the course of multiple years. The service dogs are provided at no or minimal costs to applicants.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Nebraska.
Nevada
The K-9 Handler LLC
Henderson and Las Vegas, NV
702-882-3694
Contact Form
The K-9 Handler trains service dogs primarily for disabled veterans with mobility issues as well as psychiatric concerns, such as PTSD.
Michael’s Angel Paws
Multiple Locations in NV
702-658-0148
Contact Form
Michael’s Angel Paws has a special service dog program that can train prospective animals in mobility practices, psychological/PTSD care, autism, and even medical alert problems (such as diabetes, seizures, and hearing impairment).
Loyalty Service Dogs
550 West Pioneer Boulevard Suite 140
Mesquite, NV 89027
[email protected]
Contact Form
Loyalty Service Dogs matches their clients with a puppy that they then train. They offer service dogs that can trained for tasks that help with autism, diabetes, seizures, and PTSD.
Smarty Paws Canine Coaching
4161 N Ranch Dr #120
Las Vegas, NV 89130
(702) 396-8501
Contact Form
Smarty Paws Canine Coaching offers service dog training for PTSD, anxiety, mobilit impairments, medical alerts, hearing alerts, and diabetes alerts. They also offers training for emotional support animals or therapy dogs.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Nevada.
New Hampshire
College For Pets
594 Tenney Mountain Hwy.
Plymouth, NH 03264
603-369-4738
[email protected]
College For Pets is an organization that provides service dog training for both puppies as well as older dogs over five months of age. Older dogs require some form of obedience training prior to being accepted into this program.
Dee Ganley Dog Training Services
P.O. Box 19
East Andover, NH 03231
603-735-5543
[email protected]
Dee Ganley Dog Training Services provide a full complement of dog training services to fit your health/lifestyle needs. They train dogs to be wheelchair assistants, visual impairment guides, hearing assistants, seizure/medical response, as well as psychiatric care animals.
No Monkey Business Dog Training
254 North State Street, Unit M
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 856-7509
Contact Form
No Monkey Business Dog Training has an extensive service dog training program that lasts around a year. For a dog to be accepted into their training program, they must show no signs of aggression, fear, or stress in public.
Wonderpup Dog Training
Chester, NH
[email protected]
Wonderpup Dog Training offers customized training programs based on the client’s individual needs. They also offer virtual private lessons and support services so that those outside of the Chester, NH area can still get the help they need.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in New Hampshire.
New Jersey
John Soares K9 Training
1165 Greenwood Lake Turnpike
Ringwood, NJ 07456
(973) 506-4644
Contact Form
John Soares K9 training offers an in-depth service dog training program that is tailored to suit each individual client’s needs. Their program begins with a consultation with their owner and lead trainer, John Soares, who will use the time to determine the perfect breed for your ideal service dog.
The Seeing Eye
P.O. Box 375
Morristown, NJ 07963
(973) 539-4425
[email protected]
The Seeing Eye is a non-profit organization that helps those with visual impairments receive seeing eye service dogs. Applicants apply online, and then attend a 3.5-week training program, While the program is funded through donations, there is still a small fee.
Pro Canine Center
929 State Route 12
Frenchtown, NJ 08825
(908) 421-5050
[email protected]
Pro Canine Center is a highly regarded professional training company led by Andres Aportela, an esteemed trainer, and the team has 30 years of experience and multiple qualifications. They focus on training that assists those with diabetes, physical impairments, and psychological disorders, though other disabilities may be assisted, on request.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in New Jersey.
New Mexico
Assistance Dogs of the West
P.O. Box 31027
Santa Fe, NM 87594
505-986-9748
[email protected]
Assistance Dogs of the West provide general service dog training, along with training for dogs that can aid in other complicated disabilities, such as ones that require medical alert training. They focus on engaging youth and their leadership skills as a part of their company culture.
Service Dogs of New Mexico
17 Bus Lane
Sandia Park, NM 87047
505-286-7809
[email protected]
Service Dogs of New Mexico train service dogs specifically for veterans, service dogs for individuals under the age of 18, emotional support animals, and ADA-compliant facility service dogs.
New Mexico Dog Training Academy
Albuquerque, NM
(505) 270-5930
[email protected]
Contact Form
New Mexico Dog Training Academy can help you train your own dog to become a service dog. Their training can be done via one-on-one or group setting classes, and they’re held at your home, at their facility, and in public spaces – so your service dog will be ready to work anywhere.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in New Mexico.
New York
Canine Companions for Independence
Miller Family Campus
286 Middle Island Road
Medford, NY 11763
631-561-0200
Contact Form
Canine Companions for Independence is a non-profit organization that trains service dogs for children, adults, veterans and even professional services such as the health and criminal justice industries. They also provide free service dog access to low-income individuals. CCI has a branch in New York, as well as many other locations in the United States.
All Dawgs
30 Railroad Ave
Albany NY 12205
518-831-9192
[email protected]
All Dawgs is an Albany, New York-based service dog training organization that can train not only just generalized assistance service dogs but also emotional support dogs as well as therapy/facility dogs.
Rochester NY Dogs
Unit 631
Pittsford NY 14534
585-861-8067
[email protected]
Rochester NY Dogs is a Rochester, New York-based service dog training organization that can train not only just generalized assistance service dogs but also emotional support dogs as well as therapy/facility dogs. They are labeled as a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator as well as part of the American Kennel Club Star Puppy program.
Certified Canine Services
8166 State Route 3
Pulaski, NY 13142
(315) 298-5755
Contact Form
Certified Canine Services takes the time to create personalized training that caters to each dog’s individual needs, personality, and behaviorial issues, as well as their human’s needs. The service dog tasks trained for are always tailored toward the client’s disabilities and needs, so that the dog can be support them.
Canine College
26220 NYS-283
Watertown, NY 13601
(315) 755-8912
[email protected]
Canine College will train dogs under 2.5 years old in their service dog program, which trains mobility service dogs, psychiatric service dogs, and seizure response dogs. Every service dog will learn at least three tasks to assist their handler with their disability.
Unique K9 Services
New York, New York
(914) 269-8484
[email protected]
Contact Form
Unique K9 Services offers personalized service dog training that is tailored toward your dog’s learning style and needs. Plus, they make sure both you and your dog are having fun all throughout the training process.
Doggie Academy
Brooklyn, New York
(646) 828-3551
[email protected]
Doggie Academy offers both in-person and online lessons, allowing you to train a service dog wherever is easieset for you. They offer consulations to help devise a specific service dog training program for you to help best address your needs.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in New York.
North Carolina
Compass Key
Eastern NC
484-643-8445
Contact Form
Compass Key, formerly PAWS Training Centers, is a multi-state service dog training company that trains currently-owned privately purchased dogs to be service animals. They belong to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the Animal Assisted Intervention International (AAII) as well as the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP).
Canines for Service
221 Old Dairy Road, Unit 1
Wilmington NC 28405
910-362-8181
[email protected]
Canines for Service focuses on training service dogs for veterans and non-veterans with mobility concerns.
Four Paws and a Wake-UP NC
PO Box 12544
Wilmington, NC 28405
(910) 506-3647
[email protected]
Four Paws and a Wake Up-NC is a non-profit organization that trains services dogs for veterans with disabilities. Since they rely ondonations and sponsorships to fund their program, the dogs are provided to veterans at no cost. They also offer a fee-based training program that is open to anyone with a disability, including non-veterans.
Appalachian Dog Training
Mills River, North Carolina
(828) 708-5949
[email protected]
Appalacian Dog Training trains service dogs for multiple disabilities: PTSD, autism, mobility impairments, epilepsy, and hearing loss. All their dogs are raised by professional trainers from birth, and hey offer an annual refresher course to make sure there’s a lifelong bond between handler and dog.
Level Up Dog Training
Yadkinville, NC
[email protected]
Consulation Request Form
Level Up Dog Training takes service dog training to the next level, and specializes in preparing puppies to help those with psychiatric conditions or mobility impairments. Other disabilities can be catered to as well, including autism, hearing/visual impairments, and diabetes.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in North Carolina.
North Dakota
Service Dogs for America
920 Short Street
Jud, North Dakota 58454
(701) 685-2242
[email protected]
Service Dogs for America trains mobility assistance dogs, emergency response dogs, dogs that specialize in PTSD, and professional-use facility dogs.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in North Dakota.
Ohio
Canine Companions for Independence: North Central Region
4989 State Route 37 East
Delaware, Ohio 43015
740-833-3700
Contact Form
Canine Companions for Independence is a non-profit organization that trains service dogs for children, adults, veterans and even professional services such as the health and criminal justice industries. They also provide free service dog access to low-income individuals. CCI has a branch in New York, as well as many other locations in the United States.
Buckeye K9
2490 Mc Gaw Rd.
Obetz, OH 43207
(614) 448-6024
[email protected]
Contact Form
Buckeye K9 is led by head trainer Lori, who has more than 15 years experience in the field. Their program starts with an in-depth consultation, after which they help you handpick the right puppy for you, and then they full customize a training program specific to your needs.
A Better Pet
Cleveland, OH
(216) 321-7654
[email protected]
Contact Form
A Better Pet offers a fully customized service dog training program. The organization is led by Rachel, who has worked with canines for over 20 years. Currently, Rachel specializes in training service dogs for those with autism, psychiatric conditions, and mobility issues – and she has a particular knack for working with children.
4 Paws for Ability
207 Dayton Ave
Xenia, OH 45385
(937) 374-0385
[email protected]
4 Paws for Ability is a well-established non-profit that has placed over 1,500 service dogs. They specialize in working with children with disabilities. For approved applicants, there is no fee for aquiring a service dog.
Highland K9
145 Foxfield Drive
Harmony, NC 28634
(866) 200-2207
[email protected]
Highland K9 offers a flexible service dog training program to help those with autism, seizures, or mobility impairments. There’s no age limit or application fee, and each program is fully customized for every individual’s needs. They also offer a flexible payment plan and can help assist with fundraising initiatives.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Ohio.
Oklahoma
Glad Wags Service Dogs
5103 S Sheridan Rd, #540
Tulsa, OK 74145
918-504-1764
Contact Form
Glad Wags Service Dogs provides service dog training for diabetes, autism, hearing aid, mobility, narcolepsy, psychiatric issues, and more.
Therapetics Service Dogs of Oklahoma
9433 East 51st Street South
Tulsa, OK 74145
(918) 270-4226
[email protected]
Therapetics Service Dogs of Oklahoma focuses on providing no-cost service dogs to those with military- or first responded-related PTSD. They also work hard to advocate for service dog and their handlers, and they strive to educate awareness of their rights as well.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Oklahoma.
Oregon
Compass Key
Northwest OR
484-643-8445
Contact Form
Compass Key, formerly PAWS Training Centers, is a multi-state service dog training company that trains currently-owned privately purchased dogs to be service animals. They belong to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the Animal Assisted Intervention International (AAII) as well as the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP).
Charlo Training
Portland, OR
(503) 758-8212
[email protected]
Charlo Training offers a comprehensive service dog training course, thanks to their team of certified trainers who utilize a broad range of training techniques. They specialize in training service dogs to perform non-“life-dependent” tasks, including things like picking up items, applying pressure, and blocking.
The Joys of Living Assistance Dogs
1999 25th St SE
Salem, OR 97302
(503) 551-4572
[email protected]
The Joys of Living Assistance Dogs is a non-profit that tasks intimates with training custom-bred puppies to become service dogs, which are then placed with those with disabilities for no cost. The focus on service dogs that assist with mobility issues and PTSD, and they also offer an Owner Trained program.
Comprehensive Pet Therapy
444 Charnelton Street
Eugene, OR 97401
(541) 344-6446
[email protected]
Comprehensive Pet Therapy serves both Oregon and Georgia, and the Oregon branch offers service dog training for those with epilepsy, hearing/mobility impairments, autism, and psychiatric conditions.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Oregon.
Pennsylvania
Susquehanna Service Dogs
Susquehanna Service Dogs
1078 Gravel Hill Road
Grantville, PA 17028
717-599-5920
[email protected]
Susquehanna Service Dogs train service dogs for mobility, autism, PTSD, hearing, and seizure concerns. They also have the capacity to train facility dogs as well as home-based service dogs.
Compass Key
Southeastern PA
484-643-8445
Contact Form
Compass Key, formerly PAWS Training Centers, is a multi-state service dog training company that trains currently owned privately purchased dogs to be service animals. They belong to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the Animal Assisted Intervention International (AAII) as well as the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP).
Digman Canine Academy
3605 Halfmoon Valley
Port Matilda, PA 16870
(814) 639-0521
[email protected]
Digman Canine Academy is the brainchild of Claire Digman, a talented trainer who is highly educated and has been running this organization since 2013. Every service dog training program is specifically customized for each client’s needs, and the training is offered at the client’s home, at her facility, or at a mixture of both.
Canine Partners for Life
334 Faggs Manor Rd
Cochranville, PA 19330
(610) 869-4902
[email protected]
Canine Partners for Life provides thoroughly trained service dogs to those who need assitance with mobility issues, as wellas those who require a cardiac, diabetes, or seizure alert dog.
Phoenix Assistance Dogs
Phoenix, Pennsylvania
Contact Form
Phoenix Assistance Dogs is a small non-profit that trains one service dog at a time. Their head trainer, Linzey Zoccola, has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and she’s spent her entire life using and trianing service dogs – since her childhood. All service dogs are chosen as puppies from local shelters, and she’s trained service dogs that help with epilepsy, diabetes, hearing/sight difficulties, and mobility issues.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Pennsylvania.
Rhode Island
A Modern Dog Training
27 Meadow St, Warwick RI
401-404-5366
[email protected] (preferred method of communication)
A Modern Dog Training provides individual professional owner service dog training. Proof of need is required.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Rhode Island.
South Carolina
PAALS
221 N. Grampian Hills Rd.
Columbia, SC 29223
803-788-7063
Contact Form
Palmetto Animal Assisted Life Services provides training for mobility assistance dogs, autism assistance dogs, PTSD assistance dogs, facility service dogs, as well as home companion dogs.
Dog Training in Your Home
7001 St. Andrews Rd PMB 310
Columbus, SC 29212
(803) 561-9090
[email protected]
Dog Training in Your Home offers a comprehensive service dog training program that takes place in the client’s home, as well as in public spaces during public access sessions. They specialize in PTSD and mobility issues, though other disabilities are catered to as well.
The Service Dog Institute
655 H Fairview Road #173
Simpsonville, SC 29680
(864) 399-4392
[email protected]
The Service Dog Institute is a non-profit organization that aims to help children with disabilites, though they can also help some audlts and veterans with special needs. They train service dogs that assist with PTSD, mobility impairments, autism, and psychiatric conditions.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in South Carolina.
South Dakota
Animal Psychology Center
Philip/Rapid City, South Dakota
605-390-7295
[email protected]
Contact Form
The Animal Psychology Center trains service animals for mental/emotional disabilities as well as physical ones. Training is based on the client’s specific disability.
Big Paws Canine Foundation
45924 263rd Street
Hartford, SD 57033
(844) 244-7297
Contact Form
Big Paws Canine Foundation works exclusive to train service dogs for veterans with disabilities. They have no listed limits for what disabilities they can work with, and instead, will build a custom training program based around the veteran’s needs. As they’re a charity organization that is funded entirely by donations and fundraising, they only charge veterans a dollar a month for the life of the dog.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in South Dakota.
Tennessee
Retrieving Independence
256 Seaboard Lane Suite C101
Franklin, TN 37067
615-934-0444
[email protected]
Retrieving Independence is a nonprofit organization that trains service dogs through volunteer workers of many different varieties, including prison inmates.
K-9 Companions
Nashville, TN
(615) 939-4877
[email protected]
K-9 Companions’ Nashville branch has been placing service dogs since 2010. They cater exclusively to veterans with PTSD or traumatic brain injuries, as well as children with autism. Their team is highly experienced, with some members having been in the business for 40 years, and they utilize only positive training.
CrittersWork
Greeneville, TN
(423) 609-3301
CrittersWork is a small training organization that offers a charitable service dog program that is funded through community donations. Their program follows strict Assistance Dog International standards, and they’ve been helping those with physical and psychiatric disabilties for two decades.
Wilderwood Service Dogs
1319 Tuckaleechee Trail
Maryville, TN 37804
(865) 660-0095
[email protected]
Wilderstood Service Dogs is a non-profit taht trains service dogs that assist with neurological disabilites, including autism and Alzheimer’s. Applicants must raise the cost through fundraising efforts which take place during the training phase. Most of the trainers have neurological disorders themselves, making them particularly understanding trainers.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Tennessee.
Texas
TADSAW
13423 Blanco Road, Suite 218
San Antonio, TX 78216
210-643-2901
[email protected]
Train a Dog, Save a Warrior (TADSAW) is an organization that specializes in training a “battle buddy” service dog for veterans dealing with the rigors of post-war physical impairment or emotional issues.
Dog Training Elite
San Antonio, TX
(210) 723-5288
Evaluation Request Form
Dog Training Elite’s San Antonio location offers six different service dog training programs: PTSD, mobility support, autism assistance, diabetic alert training, service puppies, and fully trained service dogs. Training occurs both on-site and in public spaces, and they offer flexible scheduling.
Service Dog Express
Multiple Texas Locations: San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, Beaumont, El Paso, Austin, San Marcos, Lubbock
Contact Form
Service Dog Express will link clients with an independent trainer who suits their needs, each of whom adheres to their directive and pricing structure. They primarily work with dogs that already live with their handlers, and they have you perform the beginning stages of training yourself, to reduce costs and encourage bonding through service dog tasks.
Scout’s Legacy Service Dogs
Trenton, TX
[email protected]
Contact Form
Scout’s Legacy Service Dogs offers service dog training for three areas: medical response, psychiatric support, and mobility support. Training takes place both online and at their facility. Their founding, Amanda, named the orgnization after her own self-trained service dog.
Aretas Assistance Dogs
Poolville, TX
(817) 330-9495
[email protected]
Aretas Assistance Dogs is a charitable organization that exclusively works with chidren with disabilites, with their staff having experience in social work, education, and child development. All their service dogs are puppies who are rescued from shelters and then put through their training program, which culminates in rigorous public access and serice dog tests.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Texas.
Utah
Molli Dogs Training
Orem, UT
801-592-6912
[email protected]
Contact Form
Molli Dogs Training is a service dog training organization in Utah that can train service dogs based on disability needs. They are the only trainer in the Utah Valley area that is certified to work with Canines for Careers, a program that saves the lives of shelter dogs everywhere.
Skye’s Dog Training
West Jordan, UT
801-885-3922
[email protected]
Skye’s Dog Training is a Certified Behavior Consultant – Canine (CBCC-KA) as well as Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) in the West Jordan, Utah area. They train service dogs, emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, and professional facility dogs.
Utah K9 Training
Salt Lake City, UT
(385) 999-7088
[email protected]
Contact Form
Utah K9 Training was founded by industry veteran Mike Seely, a former search and rescue trainer who know focuses on service dog training. The program is entirely customized for each client, and it can be designed to help those with seizures, diabetes, mobility impairments, and hearing or vision loss.
Stevens Dog Training
Eagle Mountain, UT
(385) 309-5112
[email protected]
This small outfit has been training service dogs since 2014. Prospective service dogs are sourced from shelters and then put through a comprehensive training program – which are flexible and adapted to each client’s unique needs. Training a client’s current dog may also be considered.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Utah.
Vermont
Green Mountain Dog Camp
Roxbury, VT
(802) 485-4585
[email protected]
Green Mountain Dog Camp provides service dog training that includes locating a suitable animal. It’s led by founder Janine Manninen, a Certified Training Partner who uses force-free positive reinforcement techniques and aims to train service dogs quickly.
Fetch and More
Eastern US States, including Vermont
(201) 914-8268
[email protected]
Fetch and More offers service dog training to multiple eastern states, including Vermont. They specialize in training service dogs for those psychiatric disabilities, especially PTSD. Their lead trainer, John Bellocchio, has more than 20 years of experience.
Vermont Paws & Boots
P.O. Box 257
Bennington, VT 05201
[email protected]
Vermont Paws & Boots is a non-profit that works exclusively with veterans and first responders, offering service dogs that assist with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, military sexual trauma, and physical disabilites.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Vermont.
Virginia
Mutts with a Mission
P.O. Box 4147, Suffolk, VA 23439
Phone: 757-465-1033
Fax: 757-465-1088
[email protected]
Mutts with a Mission focuses on providing wounded veterans with a proper service dog that can assist them and their needs. They will also be opening their services to law enforcement and other kinds of first responders with disabilities in the near future.
Saint Francis Service Dogs
8232 Enon Drive
Roanoke, VA 24019
540-342-3647
[email protected]
Saint Francis Service Dogs provide trained dogs that assist individuals who suffer with autism, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, arthritic conditions, and much more.
Service Dogs of Virginia
P.O. Box 408
Charlottesville, VA 22902
(434) 295-9503
[email protected]
Service Dogs of Virginia is a non-profit that sources funds from community donations and corporate sponsorships, so getting a service dog is free or heavily subsidized. Their prestigious service dog training program trains dogs to help with autism, PTSD, medical alerts, and physical assistance. They’re also Assistance Dogs International certified, and was founded back in 2000.
Anchor Assistance Dogs
Virginia Beach, VA
(757) 753-0388
[email protected]
Anchor Assistance Dogs is a non-profit founded by Allie Gahagan, who herself has a neurolgoical disability and so understands their clients’ needs. They offer their pups for little to no cost, and they exclusively train custom-bred puppies.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Virginia.
Washington
Compass Key
Western WA
484-643-8445
Contact Form
Compass Key, formerly PAWS Training Centers, is a multi-state service dog training company that trains currently-owned privately purchased dogs to be service animals. They belong to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the Animal Assisted Intervention International (AAII) as well as the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP).
Nitro K-9 Service Dog Program
17624 15th Ave SE #108A
Bothell, WA 98012
(425) 892-2519
[email protected]
Nitro K-9 Service Dog Program focuses on training psychiatric service dogs. They’ll help their clients choose an appropriate service dog before training begins.
Atlas Assistance Dogs
Bellevue, WA
(503) 893-8080
[email protected]
Atlas Assistance Dogs assigns a private trainer based on your needs and goals. They also teach you the necessary skills to train your service dog yourself, so that you can continue to work on their training after the program is over.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Washington.
West Virginia
Hearts of Gold
45 Poultry Loop
Morgantown, WV 26505
304.470.0276
[email protected]
Hearts of Gold trains service dogs for eligible veterans. Their training program, which lasts over a year, costs nothing.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in West Virginia.
Wisconsin
Custom Canines Service Dog Academy
2310 Mustang Way
Madison, WI 53718
844-888-8850
Contact Form
Custom Canines Service Dog Academy provides service dog training for mobility problems, visual assistance/guide dogs, autism assistance, and PTSD assistance.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Wisconsin.
Wyoming
K9s 4 Mobility
11805 Campstool Road
Cheyenne, WY, 82007
307-222-9597
[email protected]
Contact Form
K9s 4 Mobility train a large variety of service dog types, including guide dogs, general service dogs for individuals with physical disabilities, as well as social dogs for children with behavior/mental/physical disabilities. They also provide an owner-trained service dog program for individuals who wish to learn how to train their very own dog via the watchful eye of a certified professional service dog trainer.
Our full guide to the best service dog trainers in Wyoming.