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.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS →

YOUR JOURNEY WITH HSD →