To watch a short video showing the phases of training, click here. Or, read on.
Because of our community of supporters, we operate the most advanced training facilities of any service dog organization in the world. It takes two years to raise and train each dog, and we combine art and science to create the healthiest, smartest dogs through our data-driven genetics and reproduction program. We start training our puppies when they are just days old, and at 10 weeks, the second phase of training begins as we send our puppies home with volunteer puppy raisers to learn basic obedience, house manners, and socialization.
At Canine University, our dogs begin college-level training with certified trainers to learn advanced skills for their future careers. Before they graduate, guide dogs learn over 40 commands and service dogs learn about 15 to 20 commands. Some dogs enroll into careers in our special programs for veterans and children, because here, every dog makes a difference.