Disclaimer: This page may soon be deprecated as we update our Service Dog Program. Please contact us if you have questions about our current offerings.

• What’s the difference between a service dog, therapy dog, and an ESA?
  • Service Dogs are trained to perform specific tasks and can accompany their handler in public places where civilians are allowed, with few exceptions.
  • Therapy Dogs visit places like schools and hospitals to provide comfort but are only allowed in dog-friendly or working environments and are not task-trained.
  • Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) provide comfort to their owner. They may be allowed in housing under the Fair Housing Act, but are not covered for public access by the ADA.
  • If you are interested in additional training for your ESA, contact us for information.
• What documentation is required for your service dog program?
  • Letter of Medical Necessity from your healthcare provider
  • Signed Service Dog Training Agreement
  • Emergency contacts who can provide care for your dog if needed
  • Your dog’s vaccination records and proof of a negative fecal test
• What is certification vs. endorsement?
  • There is no national certification for service dogs under the ADA, and handlers are not required to show documentation. Dogs must be under control and properly trained to qualify as service dogs.
  • Some organizations offer their own certification, but “certified” can be misleading. People with disabilities have the right to train their own dogs. Good Human provides “endorsement” to recognize that a team meets our standards.
  • You can read more about our endorsement program by contacting us directly.
• Can I do partial training without completing the program?
  • Yes! We offer instruction and resources to owner-trainers even if you do not complete the full program.
  • Completion of online courses does not imply endorsement by Good Human Dog Training.
  • Endorsement requires completing core assessments in person.
• How long does it take to complete your program?
  • Training duration varies by dog and situation. Many factors are considered, including age, skill requirements, and handler commitment. Expect the process to take up to two years.
• Couldn’t I just buy a vest online?
  • Anyone can buy a vest, but it does not guarantee public access or legal rights. The ADA allows business owners to remove a dog that is not under control, regardless of whether it wears a vest.
  • After completing our program, you may purchase Good Human-branded materials to help you present as a professional team.
• Once I complete the program, can my dog go anywhere with me?
  • Trained service dogs are protected by the ADA and can accompany their handler in public where civilians are permitted, with few exceptions.
  • Always review the most current ADA requirements for service dogs.
• Is my dog guaranteed to become a service dog?
  • No. Success depends on many factors including handler follow-through, the dog’s age, genetics, socialization, and training needs. We promise to provide the most individualized, intensive training possible for your team.
• What method do you use to train?
  • We use only humane, evidence-based methods grounded in positive reinforcement and modern behavior science. We do not use aversive techniques or dominance-based training.
• Will you work with dogs of any breed, age, and size?
  • Dogs must be at least six months old for our program. While certain breeds may have traits suited for service work, many dogs can succeed with the right temperament and training. We do not generally recommend starting with dogs older than four years (breed dependent).
  • All candidates must pass our Readiness Assessment and be in good health.
• What if I don’t live close to you?
  • We offer intensive online courses to minimize travel.
  • If you can travel to Winston-Salem, NC, for three key assessments, you can participate in our program.
  • We can coordinate with local trainers or provide virtual coaching to support your journey.
• How much does it cost?
  • Full service dog training typically costs $5,000–$10,000 over the course of the program (with bi-weekly lessons). Your total investment will vary based on your needs and your dog’s previous training.
  • Initial Consultation (90 min): $140
  • Assessment lesson (60 min): $110
  • Single private lesson (60 min): $110
  • Single virtual lesson (60 min): $95
  • Discounted packages are available. Self-study pricing is TBD.
  • Some training and care costs may be tax-deductible. Please consult your tax advisor.
• I don’t have money for training. What are my options?
  • We offer pay-as-you-go, with no upfront costs. More affordable options may be available, including group and online lessons.
  • You may be able to use HSA/FSA funds for service dog expenses.
  • Many clients have successfully used fundraising, donations, or non-profit sponsorships.
  • If funding is not possible, we can refer you to other resources or non-profits.
• Can you train my dog for me?
  • We believe the strongest teams are built through partnership and learning together. We guide you in training your own service dog using humane, ethical methods. Day training is available for local clients.
• My child could benefit from a service dog. Will you work with us?
  • Yes! We work with clients of all ages. Special considerations apply for children too young to participate in training; we’re happy to discuss if our program is a good fit for your family.
• Can you train my dog for planes, trains, and automobiles?
  • Yes! We offer travel training for public transportation and air travel, including practice flights if needed (client covers trainer’s travel expenses). For international travel, contact us about requirements.
• Will you train dogs for protection?
  • No. Protection or aggression training is not recognized as a service dog task under the ADA and does not align with our philosophy.
• You can train dogs, sure. But tell me about your leash-side manner.
  • We’re people trainers, too! We break tasks into easy steps and make learning enjoyable and stress-free for dogs and humans alike—even for anxious learners.
• What’s your #1 dog training tip?
  • Catch your dog doing it right! Reward the behavior you like, and you’ll see more of it.