OUR TRAINING OPTIONS

What Goes into training our specially selected dogs?

t Dawgs at Work, we are committed to providing an exceptional training program for service, emotional support, and therapy dogs. Our structured approach ensures that each dog not only meets rigorous standards but also has the opportunity to express their unique personality, fostering a strong bond with their handlers.

Rigorous Training and Evaluation Process

Our dogs undergo an extensive training program, typically lasting **one to one and a half years minimum** and logging over **3,000 hours of training time by the end of the first year**. This comprehensive training includes:

 **Daily Skills Training and Manners Work**: We focus on essential skills and good manners through structured daily training sessions. This helps dogs learn appropriate behaviors in various situations.

**Behavioral Assessments**: Each dog is evaluated for social interactions, anxiety levels, and responsiveness to various stimuli. This assessment helps us identify the dogs best suited for service or therapeutic roles while allowing their individuality to shine.

**Skill Proficiency Tests**: Dogs are trained in specific skills tailored to their future tasks, whether it’s retrieving items, providing stability support, or offering emotional comfort. Each skill is tested in real-world scenarios to ensure reliability and to highlight the dogs’ unique strengths.

**Regular Training Outings**: We conduct training outings in real-world settings at off-site partner locations and pet-friendly venues. These outings expose dogs to various environments, helping them adapt and respond positively to different situations.

**Health and Wellness Checks**: Regular veterinary check-ups ensure that all dogs are healthy and fit for service.

Comprehensive Handler Certification Program

We believe the bond between handler and dog is essential for success. Therefore, all foster families and handlers must complete our certification program, which covers:

 **Basics in Canine Cognition**: Understanding how dogs think and learn is vital for effective training and communication. Our curriculum provides insights into canine behavior and psychology, enabling handlers to connect with their dogs on a deeper level.

**Training Techniques**: Handlers learn positive reinforcement methods, clicker training, and other effective techniques to reinforce desirable behaviors while allowing each dog’s personality to shine.

**Handling Skills**: Practical workshops provide hands-on experience in managing dogs in various environments, ensuring handlers are prepared to navigate everyday challenges while appreciating their dogs’ individuality.

**Emergency Procedures**: Handlers are trained to recognize and respond to potential emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the dog and those they assist.

Commitment to Development and Evaluation

All dogs in our complete program remain with us for a **minimum of one year**, regardless of the branch they will enter. This extended time allows us to:

**Thoroughly Evaluate Each Dog**: By spending more time with our dogs, we can better assess their behaviors and tailor their training to address common challenges that arise during critical developmental stages—from neonatal through to adulthood.

**Monitor Progress**: This long-term observation helps us identify any behavioral challenges early on, ensuring that our dogs grow into well-adjusted, reliable companions.

**Foster Individuality**: We prioritize creating an environment where each dog’s character can shine through their work, enhancing their ability to connect with their handlers and provide effective support.

Ongoing Support and Community Engagement

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond certification. We offer ongoing support for all our handlers and foster families, including:

 **Regular Training Workshops**: Monthly workshops focus on advanced training techniques, updates in canine care, and community-building exercises.

**Peer Support Networks**: Handlers are encouraged to connect with one another, sharing experiences, challenges, and successes to foster a supportive community.

**Public Education and Awareness**: Our organization actively engages in outreach programs to educate the community about the roles and benefits of service, emotional support, and therapy dogs.

 “Complete Program” Overview

In our complete program, we place specially selected dogs and puppies with our certified handlers, who foster the pups through their training program in a home setting rather than a kennel environment. This living arrangement allows the dogs to thrive in a nurturing atmosphere, promoting their socialization and comfort. At [Your Organization’s Name], we cover all aspects of the dogs’ care, including veterinary expenses, training costs, food, and basic needs. We also provide compensation for our foster families, ensuring a strong commitment to the training program and the ultimate success of each dog.

At Dawgs at Work, we take pride in our dedication to training exceptional dogs while allowing their personalities to flourish. Together, we strive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most, ensuring that our dogs are not only well-prepared for their roles but also cherished companions in their journeys.