Confirm the dog has the right temperament, health, age, and stability for service work
Learn the legal requirements for service dogs in your country or region
Choose a clear task or set of tasks the dog will be trained to perform
Start with basic obedience commands
Teach reliable house manners and public behavior
Use positive reinforcement consistently
Socialize the dog to different people, places, sounds, surfaces, and situations
Train loose-leash walking and calm focus
Teach impulse control and settling in public
Practice task-specific skills step by step
Generalize each skill in many environments
Proof behaviors around distractions
Train public access skills for appropriate behavior in stores, transit, and other settings
Maintain consistent routines and reinforcement
Keep training sessions short and frequent
Track progress and behavior carefully
Address fear, aggression, anxiety, or reactivity immediately with professional help
Work with a qualified service dog trainer or organization
Schedule regular veterinary care and monitor fitness
Continue refresher training throughout the dog’s working life