Therapy Dog Program

Historically, therapy dogs entered our program through rescue and adoption after passing an intensive temperament evaluation. As our work has evolved, so has our approach.

 

We now offer two pathways into therapy dog development:

 

1. Carefully evaluated and trained rescue dogs

2. Client-owned puppies/dogs selected through temperament testing

 

All dogs entering either pathway will pass our carefully made evaluation based on AKC Temperament Test principles and adapted for puppies, young dogs, and dogs with unknown histories. This evaluation focuses on emotional stability, recovery, resilience, and engagement — traits critical for therapy work.

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DEVELOPMENT PHASE

 

Dogs beginning the therapy track start with a minimum 10-week foundational development phase, inspired by Sam Malatesta’s Whelping Box Method. This phase emphasizes:

 

• Emotional regulation

• Confidence building

• Environmental exposure

• Structured learning

• Calm behavior under stress

 

During this phase, dogs work toward AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC)-level skills.

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RESCUE AND ADOPTION HANDLER REQUIREMENTS

 

For dogs that are rescued, trained, and placed for adoption through our program, therapy work is a team effort. To ensure long-term success and safety, adopters are required to complete:

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• Adoption Application (approved)

• A 6-week Canine Good Citizen Class

• A 6-week Therapy Dog Prep Class

 

These requirements ensure new handlers are prepared to work confidently with their dog and understand expectations of therapy environments.

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CLIENT-OWNED PUPPY PATHWAY

 

For clients participating in puppy temperament testing and selection, the puppy/dog remains fully client-owned. Because training begins from day one and handlers are involved throughout the process, there are no mandatory handler class requirements for this pathway.

 

Instead, guidance is provided through private sessions, optional group classes, and ongoing support tailored to the pup and family’s goals.

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PUPPY SELECTION AND FULL-PATH DEVELOPMENT

 

We now offer intentional puppy selection and long-term therapy development, beginning with temperament testing and continuing through therapy certification readiness. This approach allows teams to start with the right foundation, avoid mismatches, and prioritize emotional health over rushing milestones.

 

Details on puppy selection and development packages can be found below.

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PUPPY SELECTION AND DEVELOPMENT PRICING

 

(Client-Owned Dog Pathway)

 

This pathway is designed for families who want to intentionally select and develop a future therapy dog from the very beginning. Puppies/dogs remain fully client-owned, and training is tailored to the pup and family’s goals.

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TEMPERAMENT TESTING AND PUPPY SELECTION- $350

 

Trainer-developed temperament testing of the litter/pup, adapted from AKC Temperament Test principles. Includes professional guidance in selecting a puppy suited for therapy work and lifestyle fit.

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PUPPY SELECTION PLUS PRIVATE PUPPY SESSION- $500

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Includes temperament testing and selection, plus one private 1-hour puppy session covering decompression, crate training, potty planning, socialization, and early obedience foundations.

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FULL THERAPY DOG DEVELOPMENT PACKAGE - $2,500

 

A comprehensive, full-path program guiding teams from puppy selection through therapy certification readiness.

 

Includes:

• Puppy temperament testing and selection

• Six private training sessions

• Level 1 Obedience Class (6 weeks)

• Level 2 Obedience Class (6 weeks)

• Therapy Skills Class (6 weeks)

• CGC preparation and CGC test fee

• Ongoing developmental guidance

• Therapy-specific skill development

 

Unused class value may be applied as a credit toward other services offered.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

How is your temperament test different from other puppy evaluations?

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This evaluation is trainer-developed and based on AKC Temperament Test principles, adapted specifically for puppies, young dogs, and dogs with limited or unknown histories. It prioritizes emotional stability, recovery, resilience, and engagement rather than surface behaviors or obedience.

 

Does temperament testing guarantee my puppy will become a therapy dog?

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No. Temperament testing helps identify natural tendencies and suitability at this stage of development. Genetics, environment, socialization, and training all influence long-term outcomes. This evaluation guides decisions but does not guarantee certification.

 

Is this program only for therapy dogs?

 

While designed for therapy dog development, the puppy selection and training pathway also benefits families seeking a stable, confident companion with strong foundational skills.

 

Do I have to enroll in the full package?

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No. You may choose the option that best fits your goals. The full development package is recommended for clients pursuing therapy work, but individual services are available.

 

Are group classes required for client-owned puppies?

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No. Group classes are optional for client-owned puppies. Training begins privately and is tailored to your puppy. Classes are encouraged for socialization and real-world practice but are not mandatory.

 

What if I can’t attend one of the included classes in the full package?

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If you choose not to attend an included class, the unused value may be applied as a credit toward other services offered, such as private training or day train.

 

When should temperament testing be done?

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Temperament testing is best completed before puppy selection or placement. Early evaluation allows for more intentional matching and long-term success.

 

Do you work with rescue dogs through this program?

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Yes. Rescue and young dogs may enter therapy development after passing temperament evaluation. Adoption and handler requirements differ for rescue placements and will be discussed individually.

 

What certifications do dogs work toward in this program?

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Dogs work toward AKC Canine Good Citizen skills and therapy-dog readiness. Certification timelines vary based on the individual dog and handler.

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Important Note: Temperament evaluations reflect behavior at the time of assessment and do not guarantee future outcomes. [Read full disclaimer]