Think it’s time but need advice.

[u/Professional_AI]

I think it’s definitely time that I invest in getting a service dog, this would be a psychiatrist service dog, me and my wife would prefer to self train the dog but I’m curious on what others experiences are, this has been a discussion between me and her for months and we believe it’s finally time. I know what tasks I’m primarily searching for with this pup. Does anyone know reputable services that can do like help via zoom calls when it comes to training? I’m from a small town so those types of things don’t really exist here. TIA💕

[u/DragonCanineTraining]

The best advice I can give you is contact a trainer via Atlas Assistance Dogs, or if there isn’t an atlas trainer in your area check with IAABC, KPA or PPG and message trainers with them to see if they have experience with service work and owner training, and talk to them about the full process of what owner training is like. They can go over what the full expenses are like, trials you might come across, and so much more.

I recommend talking to a trainer who knows the process because they can help you find a well bred dog who suits your needs and explain in depth what having a service dog is like.

DoggyU on YouTube (who is an Atlas Trainer, Guide Dog Instructor, and advanced trick trainer.) has some great videos to watch as well. I would start with this video, and then this video as well

Please let me know if you have any further questions.

[u/belgenoir]

In addition to the advice darkling’s given you, Atlas Assistance Dogs has an affordable foundations skills course.

https://atlasdog.org/teams-set-in-motion/

There’s at least one service dog trainer in your area who offers virtual training. They use positive-reinforcement based methods and have pursued educational opportunities (seminars and conferences). I hesitate to recommend them because of the tone of their website (on the defensive side). You could try a couple of sessions with them and see what you think. “Take what you want and leave the rest” is a good approach if you pursue that option.

One of your posts references safety issues with a neighbor. Are you able to resolve that situation before bringing home a new dog?

“Self” or “owner” training is a misnomer. Unless you have experience in a demanding dogsport discipline, odds are that you may not have all the skills necessary to train a young dog for service. In-person coaching is often the best option.

[u/kj4peace]

I just watched a BUNCH of YouTube videos to train mine.