Session notes
Each appointment should leave the handler with specific behaviors to practice and a clear next step.
Selective intake
A clear appointment-based process before training begins.
The intake process is intentionally selective. The goal is not to accept every inquiry; it is to understand the handler's needs, the dog's behavior, and whether service-dog work is realistic for the team before assigning the right training path.
1. ConsultationDiscuss goals, disability-related needs, current dog behavior, service path, and timeline.
2. Dog evaluationReview temperament, obedience, reactivity, recovery, environmental confidence, and suitability.
3. Training planBuild a realistic plan for task training, handler coaching, public access, and travel readiness.
4. SessionsWork through obedience, task cues, handling skills, public manners, and maintenance routines.
5. Public access reviewObserve behavior in practical environments and identify remaining gaps before higher-pressure outings.
6. Ongoing supportProvide follow-up coaching, training records when appropriate, and maintenance recommendations.
What to expect
Private training works best when the handler practices between appointments.
Clients can expect clear session goals, hands-on coaching, demonstrations, and homework between sessions. A trainer may slow the plan down when the dog needs more foundation work before task training, public access practice, or travel-related outings. A dog that is not a fit for service work may still benefit from obedience, behavior, and confidence-building training before any advanced goal is reconsidered.
Home practice
Reliable service work depends on repetition outside lessons, especially around distractions and settling.
Honest pacing
If the dog is overwhelmed, reactive, or inconsistent, the training plan should return to foundation skills.
Why selective intake matters
Service work is demanding. Some dogs need more foundation training first, some may not be suited to public access, and some handler goals need a different plan. A real training process should be willing to say that clearly.