Not Just Training. It's a Partnership.

Much like our Owner-Trained Adult Dog Program, we believe that a strong service dog begins with a solid foundation built during puppyhood. In this phase, your puppy will receive one private session per week. As your puppy matures, sessions may be combined with group training with other dogs, along with ongoing support such as dog log reviews, a training program to follow, phone consultations, and text communication throughout the week. 

The first year of a puppy’s life is critical for building confidence, social skills, and resilience. By introducing foundational service dog skills early, we help shape a dog that is calm, focused, and adaptable before formal task training begins.

This program focuses on building a strong foundation for both you and your puppy. It’s not just about teaching the puppy—it’s about strengthening the connection between you and your dog, which is key for successful service dog work. Through early exposure and socialization, your puppy learns to navigate the world confidently, while you build the skills to guide them through new experiences. Confidence-building exercises help your puppy remain resilient, and focus and engagement training teach both of you to work together, even in distracting environments. 

This program is designed for individuals who plan to train their own service dog, facility dog, or therapy dog (not to be confused with emotional support dogs) who want to start on the right path. It is tailored for puppies between 8 weeks and 1 year old who have completed at least one round of vaccinations. Before full vaccination, training will take place in safe, controlled environments to ensure early learning and socialization.

Early socialization is a critical part of raising a potential service dog. 

Owners must commit to attending scheduled appointments and actively participating in training between sessions. Consistent work at home is crucial—this includes filling out weekly dog logs, maintaining open communication with trainers, and dedicating significant time each day to training. With structured guidance, socialization, and daily practice, this program will help you and your puppy develop the skills needed for a successful service dog partnership.

Levels of Achievement: From Star Puppy to Urban Puppy

   1. Star Puppy

In this initial level, the focus is on building a strong bond and establishing basic manners. This stage introduces your puppy to fundamental skills and positive behaviors, setting the stage for all future training. The goal is to foster a love of learning and socialization from the very start.

   2. Puppy CCG (Canine Good Citizen)

Building on the Star Puppy stage, this level emphasizes essential obedience and proper behavior at home and in public. Achieving Puppy CCG certification is a significant milestone that reinforces your puppy’s ability to interact safely and confidently in everyday situations—even though it doesn’t yet confer public access rights.

   3.  Urban Puppy

In this advanced foundational level, your puppy is introduced to more dynamic and challenging environments such as busy streets, parks, and other public spaces. The training focuses on maintaining calm, confident, and responsive behavior amid distractions, ensuring your puppy adapts well to varied real-world settings.

Completing these foundational levels not only brings lasting value to your puppy’s development but also creates a seamless transition into our full service dog program, should you choose to advance further.

Step One: Complete the “Get to Know You” form below, then email the completed form to support@pawsthatserve.org.

Step Two: Schedule and attend a meeting with Paws That Serve for your puppy’s temperament evaluation and needs assessment.

One-Time Cost: $75.

Step Three: Submit your application to the Puppy Training Program.

One-Time Cost: $50.

Step Four: Enroll in training courses. Once you and your puppy are accepted into the program, you’ll begin weekly lessons tailored to your puppy’s developmental needs—whether through one-on-one sessions or group classes. You’ll also be responsible for completing weekly homework, maintaining your puppy’s training log, and preparing for progress discussions.

Cost: $400 per month.