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.

1. Star Puppy
This introductory level focuses on building a strong bond between you and your puppy while establishing positive manners and foundational skills. Through fun, confidence-building activities, your puppy learns basic cues, socialization, and how to navigate new experiences with curiosity and trust.

2. Puppy CGC (Canine Good Citizen)
Building on the Star Puppy foundation, this stage emphasizes everyday obedience and respectful behavior both at home and in public. Earning the Puppy CGC certification marks an important milestone—showing that your puppy can remain calm, attentive, and well-mannered in a variety of situations. (Note: this level does not provide public access rights.)

3. CGCA (Canine Good Citizen Advanced)
At this advanced level, your dog demonstrates consistent manners and responsiveness in real-world environments. The CGCA test includes practical exercises such as walking politely through crowds, calmly greeting new people, and following cues despite distractions. Passing this test reflects strong teamwork, focus, and public readiness.

4. CGCU (Canine Good Citizen Urban)
This highest-level certification tests your dog’s ability to remain calm, confident, and focused in busy community environments—like city streets, public transportation, and outdoor cafes. Training ensures your dog can safely and politely handle the unique challenges of urban life.

Completing these levels creates a confident, capable dog ready for life in the community—and provides a seamless transition into our full Service Dog Program, should you choose to continue advancing together.

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.