A companion dog is trained to assist individuals in their home. They provide unconditional love and affection to their partner who may be elderly, home-bound or have a psychiatric or other illness. Studies have shown, that people with dogs tend to live longer, are healthier, more active and feel more fulfilled. Our companion dogs are also taught to dial 911 and provide an added measure of safety.
Skilled Companions
A Skilled Companion Dog is also a Companion Dog, but is trained to perform specific tasks to assist their partner in their home. Skilled Companions may do many of the same tasks that a Service Dog can do. For more information about what they may be trained to do, please see our Service Dogs page.
Applying for a Companion Dog
To apply for a Companion Dog, complete the Companion Dog application. To apply for a Skilled Companion, please complete the Service Dog application and indicate that you do not wish to take your dog in public and are applying for a Skilled Companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I have a Companion Dog instead of a pet?
There is no one single answer to this question. For many people a pet is the right choice. For others, a Companion Dog is. Your Companion Dog has had extensive obedience training and has been trained to handle many situations and exposed to environments that many dogs will never see. In addition they are trained to call 9-1-1 in case of emergency. These added benefits may be something you want. In the end, the choice is yours.
What breeds of dogs do you train as Companion Dogs?
In the Professional Training Program, we currently only train large breed dogs, primarily Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds because these are the breeds we also train as Service and Facility Dogs. In the Supervised Training Program, any breed may be used.
Why should I have a Skilled Companion instead of a Service Dog?
Having a dog is a big responsibility and adds to your daily routine. Having a Service Dog is a an even bigger one. A Service Dog is one more thing to deal with while you are trying to get through your daily tasks. You have to clean up after him or her. You have to make sure that his manners remain impeccable when he is in public. If you don’t absolutely need a dog to accompany you at all times, a Skilled Companion may be a better choice.
In addition, not all dogs are cut out to be a Service Dog. In fact, relatively few can make it to that level where they can both perform their work and be comfortable in all situations in public. A Service Dog must be absolutely comfortable in all situations they may encounter. Some dogs are just not comfortable in the constantly changing world of a Service Dog, but perform their tasks well. These dogs make excellent Skilled Companion Dogs. We will often be able to place a Skilled Companion Dog with you faster than we can a Service Dog.
I already have a dog, can you train it to be a Companion or Skilled Companion Dog?
We sometimes accept these dogs on a space available basis after funding has been raised. Please see the similar question on our Services page.