Therapy dogs are much appreciated throughout schools, nursing homes, retirement homes, and hospitals. They can provide essential distractions and comfort to individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. Any breed dog, no matter the shape or size, has the possibility to become a therapy dog, so long as they have the right temperament and personality.
Dogs that are more anxious, find it difficult to maintain their excitement, and cannot sit still, are not really suited to become therapy dogs. A good therapy dog must be patient, compassionate, gentle, and comfortable in new places, and around new people.
To become a therapy dog, your dog must:
- Complete basic and advanced obedience training
- Enjoy meeting new people
- Follow basic obedience commands like sit, come or leave it
- Remain calm and still during visits
Therapy dogs and service dogs are often confused. Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs are not constantly associated with one individual, but rather are always coming into contact with new people. That is why it is important for a therapy dog to be cool, calm, and collected in new environments. Talk to our Easton dog trainer to see if therapy dog training is right for your companion.