There are very dogs that are capable of succeeding in Service Dog work. Although temperament is important, factors such as health, structure and genetics affect the rate of failure. This is why service dogs are often sought out through reputable breeders for a complete history of the breed’s line.
When evaluating dogs from a shelter for Service Dog work, you must look for factors that would disqualify the dog. For example, traits such as fear, aggression and timidity would not be appropriate Service Dog work. Additionally, any health or behavioral concerns would not be right for a Service Dog candidate.
Here are some tips for choosing a Service dog prospect from a shelter.
Age: Evaluating a Puppy is entirely different then evaluating an adolescent or adult dog. You do want to be able to tell the temperment of the prospect, however you do not want a dog that is older as it significantly decreases the dog’s working life. Typically you would look for a dog that is at least 3 months old to 2 years old.
Health: A dog should not have any health issues or concerns that would disqualify from being a Service dog. Here are some health concerns to look for:
Skeletal/Muscular injuries (Hip or elbow issues and dysplasia, back injuries, deformed or past broken bones, etc. )
Genetic illnesses ( A Service Dog should be DNA tested for …show more content…
You do not want a dog who is almost what you want, you need to be patient and go through with various shelters before heading into a decision. If you have any doubts about the dog that your are looking forward to, the dog is probably not right for these tasks. You can also try having a second evaluator or behaviorist, preferably one who has worked with Service dogs, with you while choosing for a second approval if unsure. Anyways, I hope this process goes well and good luck with your future Service
When evaluating dogs from a shelter for Service Dog work, you must look for factors that would disqualify the dog. For example, traits such as fear, aggression and timidity would not be appropriate Service Dog work. Additionally, any health or behavioral concerns would not be right for a Service Dog candidate.
Here are some tips for choosing a Service dog prospect from a shelter.
Age: Evaluating a Puppy is entirely different then evaluating an adolescent or adult dog. You do want to be able to tell the temperment of the prospect, however you do not want a dog that is older as it significantly decreases the dog’s working life. Typically you would look for a dog that is at least 3 months old to 2 years old.
Health: A dog should not have any health issues or concerns that would disqualify from being a Service dog. Here are some health concerns to look for:
Skeletal/Muscular injuries (Hip or elbow issues and dysplasia, back injuries, deformed or past broken bones, etc. )
Genetic illnesses ( A Service Dog should be DNA tested for …show more content…
You do not want a dog who is almost what you want, you need to be patient and go through with various shelters before heading into a decision. If you have any doubts about the dog that your are looking forward to, the dog is probably not right for these tasks. You can also try having a second evaluator or behaviorist, preferably one who has worked with Service dogs, with you while choosing for a second approval if unsure. Anyways, I hope this process goes well and good luck with your future Service