How to Find a Qualified Service Dog Trainer: What to Look For and Where to Start

Written By Tala C.

Finding the right service dog trainer is one of the most important decisions you'll make on your journey toward greater independence and safety. Whether you’re training a dog you already own or starting from scratch, the quality of your trainer can dramatically impact your dog’s ability to perform tasks reliably, navigate public access environments, and support your unique needs.

Where to Start: Reputable Directories

There are a few trustworthy directories to help you begin your search for qualified service or general dog trainers:

  • Atlas Assistance Dogs (Atlas-CT)- Atlas is an ADI candidate program that certifies service dog trainers once they have undergone extensive training, testing, and oversight.

  • IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants): Their directory includes trainers and behaviorists with various specializations, including service dog work.

  • PPG (Pet Professional Guild): Focuses on force-free, science-based training. You can filter for service dog professionals.

  • Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT): Lists credentialed trainers with designations like CPDT-KA and CBCC-KA.

While these directories are a great starting point, it’s essential to do your own vetting beyond what’s listed.

What to Look for in a Service Dog Trainer

Not every dog trainer is qualified to train service dogs. Here’s what you should look for:

  • Experience in Service Dog Work: Ideally, your trainer has experience working with task training, public access, and has supported multiple successful teams.

  • Task and Public Access Knowledge: They should understand the ADA, task requirements for different disabilities, and how to train in real-world settings.

  • Individualized Approach: No two service dog teams are the same. A great trainer will build a program around your disability, dog, and daily needs.

Training Methods Matter

Avoid any trainer who uses outdated or harmful methods, especially for psychiatric or medical service dogs. Here’s what to expect from a good trainer:

  • Uses positive reinforcement: Training should focus on reward-based learning, building trust and reliability.

  • Avoids punishment and intimidation: A service dog needs to be confident, not fearful. Aversive methods can ruin task reliability and damage the dog-handler bond.

  • Follows LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive)-type principles: This ethical framework ensures that the trainer chooses the most humane, effective tools at minimum. LIMA trainers should NOT have prong, e-collars, or other training tools on every or majority of dogs they work with.

You can ask directly about the trainer’s methods, review their social media pages, or observe a class to see them in action.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

  • Guarantees that your dog will be fully trained in a few weeks

  • Refuses to answer questions about methods or experience

  • Uses or promotes tools like shock collars or prong collars on every dog

  • Lacks understanding of disability rights and ADA guidelines

  • Offers public access certification before task training is complete

  • Forces your dog to enter a board and train

  • Does not use positive reinforcement within their training

  • Promotes service dog certifications for legal status

  • Dogs in program are flat, unhappy, or scared when working

  • Does not do an evaluation of your dog prior to you joining their program

  • Lacks meaningful credentials, does not continue education, and/or uses a one-size-fits-all approach

  • Does not reasonably accommodate or understand your disability

Working with Helping Howls

At Helping Howls, we prioritize ethical, evidence-based training that respects both the dog and handler. Our trainers are experienced in task training, public access, and customizing programs to fit a variety or disabilities & conditions. We offer both in-person & virtual options and believe in empowering owner-trainers with education, confidence, and support.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a service dog trainer is a personal and powerful step. Take your time, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right. The right trainer will treat you with respect, listen to your goals, and help build a team that works in harmony.

Your journey with a service dog should be empowering—and it starts with the trainer who helps guide the way.

Tala C.
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