At DogingtonPost, we’re excited to explore a unique adoption opportunity: service dogs that didn’t quite make the cut.
These incredible animals have received top-notch training but, for various reasons, didn’t complete their service dog certification.
Adopting these dogs can be a rewarding experience, giving them a loving home while benefiting from their advanced training.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of how to adopt service dogs that failed their training programs and welcome them into your family.
What Happens in Service Dog Training?
The Rigorous Training Process
Service dog training transforms puppies into highly skilled assistants. Organizations like Assistance Dogs International set strict standards for these programs. Training typically lasts 18 to 24 months and costs between $25,000 and $50,000 per dog.
The Training Journey
Puppies begin their journey at 8 weeks old. They learn basic obedience and socialization skills with volunteer puppy raisers. At 14 to 18 months, they return to the training center for advanced work. Here, they master tasks like retrieving objects, opening doors, and alerting to medical conditions.
Why Some Dogs Don’t Complete Training
The success rate for service dog training is only about 30%. Common reasons for failure include:
- Health issues: Hip dysplasia or allergies can disqualify a dog.
- Temperament: Some dogs are too energetic or easily distracted.
- Work ethic: Not all dogs have the drive for constant training.
- Socialization problems: Fear or aggression in public settings is a deal-breaker.
Available Dogs for Adoption
Failed service dogs come in various breeds and ages. Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds are common. You’ll find dogs ranging from 18 months to 3 years old. These dogs often have excellent basic training and socialization skills, making them great family pets.
Adoption Organizations
Organizations like Freedom Service Dogs of America and Guide Dogs for the Blind regularly have dogs available for adoption. Those not up to the standard are offered for adoption or are transferred to programs for other service dogs such as police or search and rescue. They provide detailed profiles of each dog, including their training history and reasons for career change. (It’s worth noting that these profiles can offer valuable insights into a dog’s personality and potential fit for your family.)
As we move forward to explore the process of finding and adopting these exceptional dogs, it’s important to understand the unique qualities they bring to the table. Their advanced training and socialization can make them excellent companions, even if they didn’t quite make the cut as service animals.
Where to Find Service Dog Dropouts
Top Organizations for Service Dog Adoptions
Several reputable organizations across the United States specialize in rehoming well-trained pups that didn’t complete their service dog training. Freedom Service Dogs of America, based in Colorado, offers a “career change” program for dogs between 18 months and 3 years old. These dogs have received extensive training but didn’t quite make the cut as service animals.
Guide Dogs for the Blind, operating in California and Oregon, provides an adoption program for dogs that don’t complete their guide dog training. They often have Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, or Lab/Golden crosses available.
The TSA Canine Training Center in Texas runs an adoption program for dogs that don’t meet their rigorous standards for explosive detection work. (These dogs are often described as “too nice” or “too playful” for the serious work of airport security.)
Adoption Requirements
Adopting a service dog dropout isn’t as straightforward as adopting from a shelter. Most organizations have specific requirements for potential adopters. You’ll typically need to:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have a fenced yard
- Provide references from your veterinarian
- Show proof of homeownership or landlord approval for pet ownership
- Demonstrate the ability to provide proper care, including regular exercise and veterinary check-ups
The Adoption Process
The process of adopting a service dog dropout can take time. Many organizations have waiting lists due to high demand. Here’s what you can expect:
Patience Pays Off
The adoption process for service dog dropouts requires patience. These organizations want to ensure the best match between dog and adopter, which takes time. (The reward of welcoming a well-trained, loving companion into your home makes the wait worthwhile.)
As you prepare for the possibility of adopting one of these exceptional dogs, it’s important to consider how to set up your home and lifestyle to accommodate their unique needs. Let’s explore how to prepare for your new companion in the next section.
How to Prepare Your Home for an Ex-Service Dog
Create a Safe Space
Ex-service dogs need structured environments. Set up a quiet area with a comfortable bed, water bowl, and toys. This space will serve as a retreat when your dog needs downtime. Remove potential hazards like loose wires or toxic plants. Install baby gates to limit access to certain areas initially.
A study by the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that dogs with a designated safe space show reduced stress levels by up to 30%. (This is particularly important for ex-service dogs adjusting to a new environment.)
Maintain Training Consistency
Assistance animals play significant roles in human therapy and well-being and represent a rapidly growing demographic of animals in society. Familiarize yourself with the commands they’ve learned. The American Kennel Club suggests spending at least 15 minutes daily to reinforce these commands.
Invest in puzzle toys and treat-dispensing games to keep their minds active. These activities can reduce boredom and prevent destructive behaviors. A survey by the Association of Professional Dog Trainers found that dogs engaged in mental stimulation activities were 40% less likely to develop anxiety-related issues.
Meet Health and Exercise Needs
Ex-service dogs are often high-energy breeds that require significant exercise. Plan for at least an hour of physical activity daily. This can include walks, runs, or fetch games. A study in the Journal of Physiology and Behavior showed that dogs receiving adequate exercise displayed 50% fewer behavioral problems.
Schedule a vet check-up within the first week of adoption. Many service dog organizations provide detailed health records, but a fresh assessment ensures you’re aware of any specific needs. Regular grooming is also essential, especially for breeds like Labrador Retrievers or German Shepherds that shed frequently.
Adapt Your Routine
Ex-service dogs are used to structured schedules. Try to establish a consistent daily routine for feeding, exercise, and rest. (This will help your new companion adjust more quickly to their new home environment.)
Provide Mental Stimulation
These highly trained dogs are accustomed to mental challenges. Incorporate training sessions, puzzle toys, and new experiences into their daily life. This will help prevent boredom and maintain their sharp minds.
Final Thoughts
Adopting service dogs that failed their training programs offers a unique opportunity to welcome a well-trained companion into your home. These exceptional animals possess advanced skills and socialization, making them excellent pets for the right families. You provide a loving home to a deserving dog and gain a highly trained companion who can enrich your daily life.
The impact of this adoption extends beyond your household, as you give a second chance to a dog that might otherwise struggle to find placement. These animals often transition smoothly to pet life due to their strong foundation in obedience and social skills. Their advanced training can significantly ease the challenges of pet ownership (and create a strong bond built on mutual trust and understanding).
We at DogingtonPost encourage you to consider this distinctive adoption option. If you want to learn more about responsible dog ownership or training tips, visit our website at DogingtonPost. We provide valuable resources to help you and your furry friend live your best lives together.