Q&A: How can I train my puppy to become a therapy dog?

The first step is to consider whether your puppy is a good candidate. He or she should enjoy being touched by strangers, is friendly towards all kinds of people, and can remain calm in any situation. 

If your puppy has these qualities, you can start training him or her in preparation for the future. Some behavior training ideas you can try include the following:

•  Sit politely to allow a stranger to pet him/her
• Sit down on command and remain in place
• Come when called
• Walk through a crowd without reacting negatively to anyone
• Behave well even if they’re away from you for a short time

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today. 

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals.

Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below.