Community

Invisible Struggles
Unwavering Support

Twenty years of service-dog partnerships, and the support that changed one woman’s life.

A woman smiles as she embraces a German shepherd

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A golden retriever puppy rests indoors

Daily Life

Puppy-proofing Your Home

Prepare for a new companion with a thoughtful look around your home.

Working Dogs

The Dogs Protecting Wildlife

Meet the scent-detection dogs helping researchers monitor wildlife and protect wild places. An interview with Working Dogs for Conservation.

A detection dog works outdoors with a handler

Community

When It’s Time for a New Service Dog

A handler reflects on retirement, successor dogs, and making room for a new partnership.

Two dogs silhouetted against an orange sunset

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Green treat pouch, blue clicker, magenta leash and scattered training treats

THE ANYTHING PAWSABLE

Training Library

QUICK TRAINING TIPS

Little Lessons, Big Possibilities

Teach “Look at Me”

Teach your dog to check in with you. Bring a treat from their nose toward your face, then mark and reward eye contact. Add “look at me” once familiar, and gradually practice around distractions.

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Train for Distractions

Practice down-stays in public places, starting with quiet spots and gradually adding distractions. Reward relaxed behavior without constant instructions.

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Let the Leash Stay Loose

Reward your dog for walking beside you with slack in the leash. Start somewhere quiet, pause when the leash tightens, and reward reconnecting before moving on.

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Stop and Sniff

Give your dog a cue to take a sniffing break. Let them explore at their own pace on a loose leash, then cue them back to work.

More sniffing ideas

Special Delivery

Build a reliable retrieve one step at a time: picking up, holding, carrying, and placing an item in your hand. Practice each part before putting them together.

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