Resources
Training Tasks
Service dogs in training receive instruction in over 100 commands. Once they reach this level of competency, then several commands can be strung together to produce advanced behaviors necessary for their human partner.
Basic Tasks
Basic tasks are not much different than would be taught to a dog as part of basic obedience -- basic retrieval, leash work, being put into a long sit or stay, and being good for the groomer. Every puppy has to learn to wear their cape so they can go on fieldtrips in the community.
Moderate Tasks
Moderate tasks are generally different than those needed for pets. Being able to pull drawers or the refrigerator open (using attached ropes) is not something most people would want their puppy to know! Our puppies learn how to pick up a credit card that has fallen and turn on the light switch too. Being able to sit quietly curled up under a restaurant table without ever begging is a prerequisite at this level.
Advanced Tasks
Advanced tasks require stamina, coordination and patience. Wheelchair work -- leading carefully through doorways so as not to get pinched, mobility assistance where the dog may have to support weight for some period of time. Dogs push elevator buttons. Dogs are routinely brought into unfamiliar situations and need to quickly assess what is required of them, adapting the specific training for the general case.
Specialized Tasks
There are a number of specialized tasks that can be taught based on specific expected situations or the aptitudes of the dog. We are familiar with dogs that have been trained to:
- Dial 911, or press the speed-dial for it, if their owner commands it or is unresponsive
- Detect and alert on low blood sugar, to prevent the owner slipping into a coma
- Sniff out cancer or other subtle chemical markers with its super sensitive nose
- Read signs, such as looking for Exit signs
