Request a Free Assessment
Service Dog Breeds
Service dogs are crucial in assisting individuals with various disabilities and conditions, providing them with support, independence, and companionship. These highly trained dogs can perform specific tasks tailored to the needs of their handlers. We've created this brief guide to review breeds that make great service dogs, who can benefit from a service dog and the training that will help these pups meet their handler's needs. Take the first step towards a better future with a trained service dog by contacting Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey today!
Popular Breeds for Service Dogs
While most dogs can be trained to become service dogs, regardless of breed, a few breeds lead the pack in popularity due to their personalities and inherent traits. Here are a few of the most popular service dog breeds.
Labrador Retrievers
Labrador retrievers are among the most sought-after breeds to be service dogs for PTSD in Bridgewater / Westfield due to their intelligence, versatility, and friendly nature. They excel in various roles, including guide dogs for individuals with visual impairments, service dogs for individuals with mobility issues, and service dogs for veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Labradors are highly trainable and possess a strong desire to please, making them ideal candidates for service work.
Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them excellent service dog candidates. Their calm temperament, intelligence, and willingness to learn contribute to their success in roles such as mobility assistance, therapy dogs, and service dogs for veterans. Their ability to provide emotional support and comfort makes them particularly well-suited for individuals with PTSD or other mental health conditions.
German Shepherds
German shepherds possess a remarkable combination of strength, intelligence, and loyalty, making them an excellent choice as a service dog for veterans. Their versatility allows them to excel in various roles, including mobility assistance, search and rescue, and service dogs for individuals with psychiatric or neurological conditions. With their keen sense of observation and natural protective instincts, German Shepherds can provide physical and emotional support to their handlers.
Poodles
Poodles are renowned for their intelligence, trainability, and hypoallergenic coats, making them popular for service dog training, especially for individuals with allergies. They excel in roles such as mobility assistance, diabetic alert dogs, and medical alert dogs.
Our Balanced Theory
We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.
Empowering Owners
We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
Personalized
We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
Environment Specific
We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
Supportive
We support owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
Involved
We work with all members of the household.
Simplified & Customized
We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
Continued Training
Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
Lifetime Investment
We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
Satisfaction Ratings
Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.
clas·si·cal con·di·tion·ing PSYCHOLOGY noun A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; a response that is at first elicited by the second stimulus and is eventually elicited by the first stimulus alone.
Who Are Service Dogs For?
Service dogs offer invaluable support and assistance to individuals facing various challenges. Service dogs are sought after by individuals with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mobility limitations, visual or hearing impairments, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety disorders, and more. Service dogs can help provide security, independence, and emotional well-being regardless of the specific condition. If you seek a loyal and capable partner to enhance your daily life, a service dog for PTSD in Bridgewater / Westfield can make a remarkable difference.
Service Dog Training
Service dogs undergo extensive and specialized training to perform their essential tasks and assist individuals with disabilities. The training process involves a combination of obedience training, task training, and public access training.
- Obedience Training
This training focuses on teaching a dog basic commands, such as sit, stay, heel, and come, as well as proper leash manners and socialization skills.
- Task Training
Task training tailors to the specific needs of the individual. It involves teaching the dog to perform tasks that mitigate the person's disability, such as retrieving items, opening doors, or providing deep pressure therapy.
- Public Access Training
This type of training is crucial to ensure the dog remains calm, well-behaved, and non-disruptive in various public settings. This training includes exposure to different environments, distractions, and social interactions to provide a dog that can confidently navigate public spaces.
We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!
The transformation in our dog's behavior after completing Dog Training Elite's program has been incredible. In just two short months, we've noticed a remarkable improvement without compromising his playful spirit. Kim and Marcus were exceptional trainers—always responsive, punctual, and warm with both us and our dog. If you're struggling with your dog's behavior, don't wait—sign up for this course today! A huge thank you to everyone at Dog Training Elite for truly making a difference in our lives!— Matthew Williams
Posted September 10th 2024
The transformation in our dog's behavior after completing Dog Training Elite's program has been incredible. In just two short months, we've noticed a remarkable improvement without compromising his playful spirit. Kim and Marcus were exceptional trainers—always responsive, punctual, and warm with both us and our dog. If you're struggling with your dog's behavior, don't wait—sign up for this course today! A huge thank you to everyone at Dog Training Elite for truly making a difference in our lives!— Matt
Posted September 10th 2024
I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with the Dog Training Elite Northern Central NJ team! Trainers Kim and Marcus have made training such a fun and engaging experience for service dog, Layla, a 1.5 yo Cattle Dog mix — their passion and dedication in setting Layla up for success shines in every session we have. My bond with Layla has strengthened significantly and I’m so thrilled with how far we’ve come! Their expert knowledge, and enthusiasm for helping dogs while having a great time in the process is truly commendable. Thank you for your hard work and commitment in guiding Layla towards her fullest potential!— Carly Raphan
Posted August 7th 2024
Marcus with Dog Training Elite absolutely exceeded our expectations! He went above and beyond for us during our training and was always just a text message away if we had questions. He was professional, knowledgeable and so caring when it came to our pup! My dog is now so well mannered and understands all commands. I would recommend DTE to anyone!— Elizabeth Dzuro
Posted August 7th 2024
From the first training session I knew it was the right fit. Kim, our trainer, has been just what our black Lab Zoey needed. She has had great insight and really vested in our Zoey. When I say Zoey has come along way she has achieved the ability to know the commands, has had leash training and after just two sessions been able to heel and walk along grass and not be distracted like most 7 month old Labs are. She has introduced her to another dog which was her first socializing with others since she left her Mom and siblings. If you’re in need of a puppy to be trained look no further you have come to the right training program. Definitely 5 stars!!— Renee Auerbacher
Posted June 5th 2024
Service Dogs for Veterans & PTSDTraining with Dog Training Elite in Bridgewater / Westfield
Dog Training Elite offers comprehensive service dog training programs designed to meet your unique needs. With our expertise and personalized approach, we can help your service dog develop the skills and behaviors necessary to fulfill their vital role in enhancing your daily life.
Service dogs are an invaluable resource for individuals with disabilities, providing support, independence, and companionship. Service dogs can benefit individuals with various conditions, including PTSD, mobility limitations, autism, anxiety disorders, and more. At Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey, we offer comprehensive service dog training programs to ensure your dog has the necessary skills to meet your needs. Our expertise and personalized approach will help you forge a strong bond with your service dog and confidently navigate daily life. Take the first step towards a brighter future by contacting Dog Training Elite today and discovering how a service dog can make a remarkable difference in your life.
