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.
What Training Has Already Begun?
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
A started dog has a foundation—but continued training is still essential.
Who Is a Started Dog Right For?
A started service dog may be a good option for someone who is prepared to become an active participant in their dog's continued training.
Wants to skip the earliest puppy stage
Has experience training dogs
Works with a professional trainer
Is prepared to continue the dog's training for the two or more years typically required for service dog development
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.
What Happens After Placement?
A started service dog is not the end of the training process.
The handler continues developing the dog's skills, public-access reliability, task work, and overall partnership. Depending on the dog's training level and the handler's needs, additional professional training may be necessary.
The goal isn't simply to place a dog.
The goal is to develop a successful service dog team.
Ready to Continue the Journey?
A Started Service Dog gives you a head start—but you are still becoming a service dog team together. Learn more about HSD's program requirements and what to expect throughout your journey.