Training a Service Dog for Anxiety: A Complete Guide

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Living with anxiety can be tough, but a service dog can offer incredible support. This guide provides a practical roadmap on how to train a service dog for anxiety. We'll cover everything from choosing the right dog to mastering specific training techniques. Ready to empower your canine companion to become your trusted anxiety-support partner? Let's get started.

If you struggle with depression, panic attacks, or other forms of anxiety, you might have noticed that being around your dog helps you feel more calm. Just spending time with a friend’s canine companion—or volunteering at a local shelter or rescue—can have an impact on your mental state. A wide range of people report the soothing effects of petting, playing, or simply sitting in the same room as their pets!

Maybe you’ve wondered what it would take to get an official service dog to help treat your anxiety. (You’re in good company: Over 610,000 individuals with disabilities are teamed up with a service dog who helps them navigate public spaces.)

How do you decide if you need a service dog—or if other medical equipment and interventions will fit your lifestyle best? What should you look for in your assistance animal’s temperament? And what’s the process to train specific psychiatric tasks to help your anxiety?

Below we break down everything you need to know to get started.

Key Takeaways

• Evaluate if a service dog is right for you: Consider the substantial time, financial, and emotional commitment involved in training and caring for a service dog. ESAs may be a better fit for those seeking primarily emotional support rather than task-trained help with psychiatric disabilities.


• Temperament trumps breed: Prioritize a confident, non-reactive dog who is eager to please and enjoys learning. A dog’s individual personality is more important than breed when choosing a service dog candidate.


• Seek expert guidance: Even experienced dog owners—and previous service dog users—can benefit from professional training support. A certified trainer can offer invaluable advice, assess your dog’s suitability, and help troubleshoot challenges throughout the training process.

First things first: Do you need a service dog for anxiety?

Understanding anxiety and its impact

The prevalence of mental health challenges

A dog's companionship can be incredibly comforting during these times, offering a sense of security and unconditional love. Studies have shown that service dogs can significantly reduce PTSD symptoms and improve the quality of life for veterans, demonstrating the powerful impact these animals can have. If you're feeling overwhelmed, reach out to a mental health professional or explore online resources like the National Institute of Mental Health.

Remember, seeking professional help is a sign of strength, and there are various resources available to support your well-being!

What is an anxiety service dog?

Psychiatric service dogs are officially considered “medical equipment.” The tasks a service dog performs must be directly related to their handler’s disability in order for them to be protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Because of these stipulations, not all dogs who improve their owners’ quality of life by helping with anxiety symptoms can be considered legal service dogs.

Emotional support animals aren’t service dogs

What this means is that emotional support, therapy, and companion animals are not protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act. That doesn’t mean they’re not wonderful—they absolutely are! But ESAs and therapy dogs do not have public access rights to visit non-pet-friendly places with their owners, like indoor restaurants and grocery stores. (The only exception is housing: Emotional support animals are allowed to live with their handlers regardless of dog or breed restrictions.)

Emotional support dogs and therapy dogs can become legal service animals if they go through designated task training to help one specific handler, who then becomes a service dog owner. Once their training is complete, they will be welcome in public spaces to aid with their handler's psychiatric or emotional disability.

Anyone with a disability can get a service dog

Legal definition of disability for service dog qualification

A wide range of physical and mental health conditions can qualify as disabilities under the ADA. These include visual impairments, deafness, mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression, autism, and epilepsy. It's important to talk with your doctor or mental health professional. They can help determine if your condition meets the ADA's definition and provide documentation if needed.

While the ADA doesn't require a specific diagnosis for service dog qualification, it does emphasize the impact on major life activities. For example, mild anxiety that doesn't significantly disrupt your daily life—even if it does create stressful situations—might not qualify you for a service dog under the ADA. However, if your anxiety is severe and limits your ability to leave the house, work, or socialize, it's more likely to be considered a qualifying disability. Your healthcare provider can help you understand how the ADA applies to your specific situation.

Service dogs can change their handlers’ lives

Service dogs have helped millions of people with disabilities manage their medical conditions to achieve greater health, confidence, and freedom in their daily lives.

If you:

1. have a psychiatric or mental health condition like post traumatic stress disorder or depression, and are


2. able to invest the necessary time and energy into caring for a canine

But a service dog isn’t always the right answer

Is a service dog the right commitment for you?

While you can technically train a service dog yourself, most experienced owners recommend working with a professional dog trainer. Even if you handle most of the training yourself, a trainer provides invaluable knowledge and guidance. They can advise you on training methods and help ensure your dog is prepared for public access work. Finding a qualified trainer takes time, so factor that into your decision.

Beyond the training itself, caring for a service dog is a significant responsibility. The costs—financial, logistical, and emotional—associated with service dog care can be substantial. This includes regular vet visits, specialized food, and potential professional grooming. You’ll also need to ensure your dog gets adequate exercise and enrichment, even when you might not feel up to it. Honestly assess your capacity to meet these needs before committing to a service dog.

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Potential downsides of having a service dog for anxiety

First and foremost, training is a substantial undertaking. Whether you work with a professional dog trainer or opt for the DIY route (which experts at Pettable advise against), you're looking at a considerable investment of time and effort. Training a dog to perform specific tasks to mitigate anxiety requires patience, consistency, and specialized knowledge.

Beyond the training itself, the financial and logistical responsibilities can be demanding. Ongoing costs include veterinary care, specialized food, grooming, and providing adequate exercise and enrichment—even on days when your anxiety might make it challenging. It's crucial to honestly assess your capacity to meet these needs consistently.

Finally, consider whether a service dog truly aligns with your lifestyle and needs. If you primarily seek emotional support and companionship, an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) might be a better fit. ESAs don't require the same level of training and don't have the same public access rights as service dogs, but they can still provide valuable comfort and companionship. Check out our resources on dog parks and other dog-friendly locations on Sniffspot to find spaces where you and your ESA can enjoy time together.

Considering ESAs: An alternative to service dogs

If you’re looking for a companion to provide emotional support and companionship, an ESA might be a good option. You can find resources and information about ESAs online and through your mental health professional. For help finding dog-friendly places to visit with your dog, check out the dog parks on Sniffspot.

Which anxiety conditions do service dogs help with?

• Depression


• Panic attacks


• Generalized anxiety


• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)


• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Does your dog have the right temperament to be a service dog for anxiety?

First up: It might seem counterintuitive, but it’s actually best if your service dog isn’t naturally worried about your anxiety.

While it can be sweet to watch an animal sense your unease and try to make things better, it can also be a sign that they’re uncomfortable! Your service dog will spend hours each day working for you in a range of environments. You want their tasks to be fun and rewarding—not driven by their own worry.

The best service dog candidates are emotionally stable and nonreactive. They shouldn’t be overwhelmed by your panic attacks—they don’t see you as a vulnerable person—and are instead able to eagerly work through a range of situations.

Finding the right dog for the job

Professional evaluation for service dog suitability

A professional service dog trainer can offer an evaluation to assess your dog’s temperament and provide guidance. They can help you determine if pursuing service dog training is the right path for both of you. Sometimes, a beloved pet might be happier as an Emotional Support Animal (ESA), providing comfort through their presence rather than performing specific tasks. If you’re looking for open spaces to work with your dog, Sniffspot offers a variety of dog-friendly locations.

Even if you have experience with dog training, a professional's insight can be invaluable. They can offer tailored advice and help troubleshoot any challenges that arise during the training process. Think of it like having a personal coach, cheering you on and providing expert guidance. Plus, they can help you assess your dog's reactivity and suitability for working in public spaces. For finding safe spaces to train and socialize your dog, check out Sniffspot's listings.

Should you choose a puppy or adult dog?

If you're leaning towards a puppy, remember that it will be some time before they're ready for formal service training. You'll need to focus on basic obedience and socialization first, gradually building a solid foundation. Choosing a name for your future service dog is a fun part of the early stages! And if you're looking for places to socialize your puppy, Sniffspot has a variety of safe, private dog parks perfect for introducing your pup to new environments.

Temperament and trainability: Key factors for success

Trainability is also key. While some breeds have reputations for being easier to train than others, any dog can learn to be a service dog with the right approach and plenty of patience. Look for a dog who is eager to please and enjoys learning new things. A dog who is food-motivated or toy-motivated can be easier to train, as these rewards can be used to reinforce desired behaviors. If you’re looking for dog name inspiration, check out our handy guide.

Specific traits to look for in an anxiety service dog

Look for a dog who exhibits genuine curiosity and confidence, and who enjoys working closely with you. A dog who is easily startled or reactive to new sights, sounds, and smells will likely struggle to focus on their tasks. Reactivity to other dogs, people, or environments, can interfere with a service dog's ability to perform their duties and can even exacerbate anxiety in their handler. Prioritize a dog who approaches new experiences with curiosity and a steady demeanor. This natural confidence will help them stay focused on you and their training, even in busy or unfamiliar environments.

Trainability is another essential factor. While some breeds have a reputation for being easier to train, any dog can learn to be a service dog with the right approach, consistent effort, and patience. A dog who is eager to please and enjoys learning new things will thrive in the training process. Motivation, whether food or toys, can make training significantly easier, as these rewards reinforce desired behaviors. If you're unsure about a dog's trainability, consult with a certified dog trainer. They can assess a dog's potential and provide guidance on the best training approach.

Not all dogs are cut out for service work

If you’re unsure whether your dog is a good candidate, consult with a professional service dog trainer for an evaluation. They can assess your dog’s temperament and provide guidance on whether pursuing service dog training is the right path for you and your furry friend. If you’re looking for open spaces to work with your dog, Sniffspot offers a variety of dog-friendly locations.

Health and physical considerations

Best dog breeds for anxiety service dog training

Many individuals with disabilities and professional service dog organizations gravitate towards one of the “Fab Four” breeds: Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, and Collies. Others love their German Shepherds (they’re known as one of the most versatile dogs for good reason). You should focus more on your service dog candidate’s overall temperament than their breed alone. Whether a Bernese Mountain Dog or a Bichon Frise, the right canine companion will be confident, alert, and eager to work with you.

Make sure your dog is prepared for public access rights

Service dogs need to be able to:

• Have strong basic obedience skills to set the foundation for proper behavior in public


• Settle for long periods of time in distracting environments


• Walk on a loose leash or in a tight heel, at your side, through crowds


• Ignore other dogs (even when confronted with excessive barking, lunging, or other instigative behavior)


• Leave dropped food, prey, and other temptations alone


• Be so confident they aren’t bothered by things like sirens and machinery (or at bare minimum recover quickly from startling, potentially traumatic events)


• Keep their attention on you, their handler, at all times

Know that service dogs are expected to handle a lot—and it’s normal for some canines to struggle with the pressure. Atlas Assistance Dogs reports that more than half of service dog candidates do not complete their training

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Understanding service dog laws and public access rights

A service animal is legally defined as a dog (or miniature horse) individually trained to perform specific tasks directly related to their handler’s disability. These tasks are part of a broader treatment plan, and the dog acts as “medical equipment,” as described in this Sniffspot article on anxiety service dogs. The dog's presence alone isn't enough; they must be trained to perform specific actions that mitigate the handler's disability.

This is a key distinction between service dogs and emotional support animals (ESAs). While ESAs offer comfort and companionship, the ADA doesn't grant them the same public access rights as service dogs. Sniffspot clarifies this difference, explaining that a dog trained to anticipate and lessen the impact of an anxiety attack qualifies as a service animal, while a dog whose mere presence provides comfort does not. This impacts where you can take your dog. Service dogs are generally allowed in most public spaces, while ESAs are typically not.

Public access with your service dog means they need to be well-behaved and trained for various situations. As Sniffspot points out, this includes solid basic obedience, remaining focused on you even in distracting environments, and ignoring other dogs, even if they’re misbehaving. Preparing your dog for public access requires time and consistent training. It’s essential for ensuring both your dog's well-being and your ability to access public spaces.

Choose what tasks you want your dog to perform

Prioritize what you most need

Some common anxiety service dog tasks include:

• Alerting you to an oncoming anxiety attack before it happens by nudging your body, barking, or lying in a specific position


• Preventing self-harm behaviors by pawing or nudging at your own hands


• Providing deep pressure therapy by lying on top of you, a bit like a weighted blanket


• Retrieving objects like medication, water, or your cell phone and bringing them to your hand


• Opening doors and flipping light switches


• Interrupting repetitive behaviors caused by obsessive-compulsive disorder


• Reminding you to take a medication by nudging, pawing, barking, or another signal you’ve chosen


• Circling around you to prevent strangers from approaching (“crowd control”)

Train your service dog’s tasks

In the early stages, this process will look a lot like teaching your pet any other basic cue:

• You’ll need a reinforcer (like high value treats or a favorite toy), a reward marker (often a clicker), and some patience.


• You can lure your dog into the correct action, shape, or capture behaviors they’re already offering. For example: Pawing and nudging are great candidates for luring—while barking or retrieving objects might be better taught through shaping or capturing.


• Once your dog can reliably perform the chosen skill, you’ll associate a visual and/or verbal cue (like a hand signal or word) that lets them know it’s time to do the behavior.

Effective service dog training methods

Training your dog to respond to anxiety episodes

Next, start rewarding your dog for the desired behavior during your anxiety episodes. Over time, your dog learns to anticipate and respond to even subtle signs of your anxiety. This process can take several months. Keep a training log to track your dog’s behavior and your anxiety levels. This will help you identify any lag time between your dog’s response and the onset of your anxiety.

Building a positive association with anxiety

Training your dog to respond to your "tells"

Modifying unwanted behaviors during training

Consistency and repetition in training

Training your dog to recognize your anxiety cues

What about dogs and non-obvious anxiety cues?

Teach the cue before connecting it to anxiety response training

Once your dog understands the cue, reward them for the desired behavior during your anxiety episodes. Over time, they’ll learn to anticipate and respond to even subtle signs of your anxiety. This takes patience and consistency, often several months. A training log can help you track your dog's responses and your anxiety levels to identify patterns and refine your approach. Even if you’re working with a professional trainer, a log keeps you actively involved.

Use your anxiety tells as a cue

The importance of keeping detailed training logs

Tracking your service dog training progress

Pair your service dog’s tasks with your anxiety symptoms

This all might sound complicated, but don’t worry. It’s essentially the same process as adding a new verbal cue to a behavior your dog already knows! Instead of associating your dog’s task with a specific word, though, you’re now going to associate it with a certain anxiety symptom.

These symptoms might include:

• Fidgeting (like picking at your hands, face, or other objects)


• Increased heart rate


• Heavy breathing

How to associate your anxiety signals with your service dog’s tasks

• Manifest your chosen anxiety symptom. Some are easy to perform on demand, like fidgeting or heavy breathing. Others, such as an increased heart rate, might require more creativity on your end.


• Pause for just a breath. Then immediately give your visual or verbal cue for the task you want your dog to perform.


• If your dog responds, mark and reward them with treats or a toy!


• Repeat this several times. Keep your sessions short and upbeat.


• Eventually your dog should start to perform their service at the onset of your anxiety symptom instead of waiting for the visual or verbal signal.

Practice and proof in a variety of environments

Since your service dog needs to work in every environment you visit, however, it’s imperative that you spend time proofing their variety of tasks. Here are some tips:

• The first time you ask your service dog to perform a task in a new context, take a few steps back in your training process to make it easier for them. Use your hand signal (or even your lure) along with your verbal cue to set them up for success.


• Make things more difficult slowly so your dog doesn’t get discouraged. You want to end your training sessions on a positive note, not with frustration!


• Make sure you always use the same visual, verbal cues, and anxiety symptom cues.


• Be aware of other subtle body movements that might confuse your dog, especially in the early stages of training.


• Video your sessions so you can evaluate your marker and reward timing.


• Make sure you aren’t asking your dog to perform in unfamiliar environments or situations before they’re ready.

Owner-training vs. professional programs

The benefits of owner-training a service dog

Owner-training also offers flexibility and cost savings. You can tailor the training to your specific needs and schedule, working at your own pace and focusing on the tasks most relevant to your disability. Resources like Pettable offer guidance on training techniques, such as positive reinforcement (source). This method is essential for building a positive and productive training experience. Remember, even with owner-training, seeking professional guidance is highly recommended, especially if you're new to dog training or encounter specific challenges.

When to consider a professional program

Professional programs also offer a structured curriculum that covers all aspects of service dog training. This ranges from basic obedience to advanced tasks. This structured approach can be particularly helpful for individuals who prefer a more guided learning experience. Many professional programs offer access to specialized equipment and training environments, which can be beneficial for practicing real-world scenarios. While professional training is not legally required, resources like Pettable highly recommend it (source). If you're feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of owner-training, a professional program can provide the support and structure you need.

Resources for finding reputable service dog organizations (like Canine Companions for Independence)

Organizations like Canine Companions for Independence are known for their comprehensive programs (source). They are committed to placing highly trained service dogs with individuals in need. They even specialize in placing mobility assistance dogs with people who have specific medical conditions like POTS and EDS (source). Thoroughly research different organizations, comparing their training philosophies, costs, and placement processes. This will help you find the best match for your needs.

When in doubt, seek professional training guidance!

Some canine professionals and training organizations even specialize in assistance animals. Many of these coaches are also service dog owners themselves, so they understand details from both a trainer and handler perspective. That means they can provide feedback on everything from public access behavior to specific tasks!

Professional training lessons can get expensive—but it’s a worthy investment to make sure your service dog is ready to act as medical equipment out in the world. If the cost of in-person private training is prohibitive, you might consider group classes, virtual sessions, or online content as well.

Why professional guidance matters

Benefits of professional service dog training

Understanding the service dog training timeline

How long does service dog training take?

Realistic timeframes for reliable responses

Even with professional guidance, teaching your dog to recognize and respond to your specific anxiety cues can take several months. Remember, you’re teaching your dog to interpret subtle shifts in your behavior and connect those shifts with a learned behavior. This involves careful observation, clear communication, and consistent positive reinforcement. Detailed training logs can help you track progress, identify patterns, and adjust your training as needed.

Phases of service dog training

The true cost of service dog training

Understanding the costs of owner-training

Detailed breakdown of potential costs

Even if you handle the training yourself, costs can still add up. PsychDogPartners offers examples of expenses totaling around $5,200 per dog, which include training tools, equipment, and professional guidance. One example highlighted a rescue dog with additional medical needs, which impacted the overall cost. Your own expenses will depend on your dog's individual circumstances, where you live, and the resources available in your area.

Beyond the initial training, remember to factor in ongoing expenses. These include regular vet checkups, high-quality dog food, toys, grooming, and potential unexpected medical bills. Just like any beloved pet, a service dog deserves the best possible care, and that comes with a price tag. Realistically assess these ongoing costs to ensure you can provide your service dog with everything they need to thrive.

Prioritizing suitability over cost in service dog training

When a dog isn't cut out for service work

What happens when a service dog "washes out"?

It’s important to recognize that washing out isn’t a failure on your part or the dog’s. It simply means the dog isn’t the right fit for this demanding role. A washed-out dog can still be a wonderful companion animal. Understanding the reasons for washing out can help you make informed decisions throughout the training process.

Reasons for removing a dog from service training

Common reasons for removing a dog from service training include:

• Temperament: A dog’s temperament plays a crucial role in their success as a service dog. While training can shape behavior, core temperament traits like reactivity, fearfulness, or aggression can hinder a dog's ability to handle the stresses of service work. For example, a dog easily startled by loud noises or exhibits reactive behavior in public spaces may not be suitable, even with extensive training. Not all dogs are cut out for service work, and that's okay.


• Health issues: Underlying health problems can also disqualify a dog. Conditions like hip dysplasia, epilepsy, or chronic pain can interfere with a dog’s ability to perform tasks reliably and comfortably. Even seemingly minor health issues can become major obstacles in the demanding world of service work. A thorough veterinary evaluation is essential before beginning service dog training.


• Lack of focus: Service dogs require exceptional focus, especially in distracting environments. Some dogs, despite their intelligence and willingness to please, may struggle to maintain the necessary concentration for extended periods. This can stem from various factors, including age, breed predispositions, or simply individual personality. A dog easily distracted may not be the best fit.


• Persistent anxiety or fear: While service dogs can be trained to mitigate anxiety in their handlers, a service dog candidate experiencing their own persistent anxiety or fear in public may not be suitable. The added stress of working in public can exacerbate these issues, hindering their ability to perform their duties effectively and impacting their overall well-being. A confident and adaptable dog is best suited for the challenges of service work.

Public access tests for service dogs

Preparing your service dog for public access

Service dog laws and your rights

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Choosing a service dog trainer: What to look for

Some canine professionals and training organizations even specialize in assistance animals. Many of these coaches are also service dog owners themselves, giving them valuable insight from both the trainer and handler perspective. This means they can offer well-rounded feedback on everything from public access behavior to specific tasks, tailoring their approach to your unique situation.

Professional training lessons can be an investment, but they’re worthwhile to ensure your service dog is fully prepared for the demands of working in public. Think of it as equipping your dog with the skills they need to be your reliable partner. If private training isn’t feasible, consider group classes, virtual sessions, or online resources to supplement your training efforts. Prioritizing the services that will have the greatest impact on your life is key, as everyone’s disability, environment, and personal needs are different.

Related reading: Further information on service dog training

• Dog Anxiety Causes and Treatment | Sniffspot


• Dog Separation Anxiety | Training and Cures | Sniffspot


• Best Remote Dog Trainers in 2023 | Sniffspot


• How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog? | Sniffspot

Professional trainer review of this article

This is the trainer that reviewed this article:

Brittany L. Fulton, CTC
Founder and Trainer, Dances with Dogs, Silver Spring, MD, www.dancesdogs.com – Certified in Training and Counseling (CTC), The Academy for Dog Trainers

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a service dog right for my anxiety?

• A service dog can be life-changing for someone with anxiety, but it’s a big decision.


• Consider the substantial time commitment for training and the ongoing responsibility of daily care.


• If you’re unsure, an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) might be a better fit for now. ESAs offer comfort and companionship without the rigorous training demands of a service dog, though they don’t have the same public access rights.


• Explore both options to see which best suits your current lifestyle and needs.

My dog helps me when I’m anxious. Does that mean they’re a service dog?

• Not necessarily. While your dog’s presence might offer comfort, a service dog is specifically trained to perform tasks that directly mitigate your disability.


• The ADA distinguishes between the comforting presence of an ESA and the trained tasks of a service dog.


• An ESA doesn’t have the same public access rights as a service dog. However, with proper training, an ESA can become a service dog.

What kind of tasks can an anxiety service dog perform?

• Anxiety service dogs can be trained for a variety of tasks tailored to your specific needs. These can include alerting you to an oncoming anxiety attack, interrupting repetitive behaviors, retrieving medication, providing deep pressure therapy, or creating personal space in crowds.


• The key is to choose tasks that directly address your most challenging anxiety symptoms.

What temperament should I look for in a potential service dog?

• Look for a dog who is confident, curious, and enjoys working closely with you. Emotional stability and non-reactivity are crucial.


• Your dog shouldn’t mirror your anxiety but rather remain calm and focused on their tasks, even in stimulating environments.


• Trainability is also important, so choose a dog eager to please and learn. While breed can be a factor, focus primarily on individual temperament.

I’m feeling overwhelmed by the idea of service dog training. What are my options?

• Don’t worry, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed! While you can train a service dog yourself, professional guidance is highly recommended.


• A trainer can provide expert advice, assess your dog’s suitability, and help troubleshoot any challenges.


• Even a few sessions can make a big difference. If cost is a concern, explore options like group classes, virtual sessions, or online resources.