Check that your dog has a calm, friendly, predictable temperament
Make sure your dog enjoys being around strangers and new environments
Confirm your dog is healthy, vaccinated, and up to date on veterinary care
Teach basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, down, come, and leave it
Practice loose-leash walking and reliable recall
Socialize your dog with different people, sounds, surfaces, and settings
Train your dog to remain calm around wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and medical equipment
Expose your dog to gentle handling by different people
Work on impulse control and settling quietly for extended periods
Ensure your dog can ignore distractions and respond consistently
Enroll in a therapy dog training class if available
Prepare for a therapy dog temperament evaluation or screening
Pass any required obedience or behavior test from a therapy dog organization
Register with a recognized therapy dog organization if needed
Complete any handler training or orientation required by the organization
Follow facility rules for hospitals, schools, nursing homes, or other visit locations
Keep your dog well-groomed and clean before visits
Monitor your dog’s stress signals and stop visits if needed
Maintain ongoing training and regular practice
Renew certifications, evaluations, or memberships as required
Follow all local laws, facility policies, and organization guidelines