Therapy/Service Dog training

From Janice, one of our trainers:

From time to time, we at Milo's get questions about the puppies we train becoming therapy dogs, and completing the AKC Canine Good Citizen certification, which shows that a dog is easy to handle and friendly, among other things.

As it happens, I am a certified CGC evaluator, as well as a STAR Puppy trainer and evaluator. The question we get asked is if we can train a puppy to meet CGC guidelines and thereby meet the certification requirements. The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no.

I train all the puppies to have the skill set necessary to receive the CGC certification. However, it is important to note that the longest program offered by Milo's is our 12 week Professorial program. There is also the 8 week Ph.D. program. These are the absolute minimums required for puppies who are going on to CGC certification. A four or five month old puppy is still VERY young, and has likely not gone through sexual maturation yet. Therefore, it is absolutely vital that all of the skills learned by your puppy at camp continue to be reinforced and practiced long after your puppy comes home to you. The old adage "if you don't use it you lose it" is very true, especially with puppies.

I would recommend that the CGC evaluation not be done until the puppy is at least one year old. This has given the puppy plenty of time to mature and get through some challenging developmental stages. I would also personally recommend the 12 week program through Milo's. Puppies are growing and maturing every single day, and you would be amazed what a difference that extra four weeks makes.

Another important point is that owners have realistic expectations of what can be accomplished in a certain amount of time. Furthermore, you can NEVER underestimate temperament in deciding whether a puppy has the "right stuff" to be a service or therapy dog. Puppies can vary enormously in their temperament and enthusiasm to learn. A calm--but NOT fearful--puppy, is ideal.

We strive to give you the very best experience possible with your newest family member. We will do everything we can to help you meet your goals. Remember, if you have questions--ask! We are here to help!