What Is a Started Service Dog?

A Started Service Dog Is an In-Progress Service Dog.

A started service dog has begun formal service dog training but has not yet completed all of the training necessary to become a fully trained service dog.

A started dog may already have a strong foundation in:

  • Obedience

  • House manners

  • Leash skills

  • Public environments

  • Settling

  • Socialization

  • Public-access foundations

  • Task foundations

  • Service-dog-specific skills

But additional training is still required.

Who Is a Started Dog Right For?

A started dog may be a good option for someone who:

  • Wants to skip the earliest puppy stage

  • Has experience training dogs

  • Works with a professional trainer

  • Is prepared to continue the two or more years of service dog training

  • Wants a dog with an established foundation

Who May Not Be a Good Fit?

Someone looking for a dog that arrives completely finished and immediately ready to work independently may need a different option.