Foundation and Obedience

The dog learns reliable communication, leash skills, focus, recall, position commands, impulse control, and appropriate behavior around people and other animals.

Disability-Related Task Training

The dog learns specific actions that directly assist the handler with disability-related needs. Training is personalized because every handler’s circumstances are different.

Public-Access Preparation

The dog learns to remain calm, responsive, controlled, and unobtrusive in public settings. Training may take place around stores, restaurants, transportation, crowds, noises, elevators, medical environments, and other real-world distractions where access is legally permitted.

Handler Training

The handler learns how to communicate with the dog, reinforce the dog’s skills, manage public situations, maintain appropriate behavior, and continue practicing after formal instruction.

Real-Life Practice

A service dog must be able to perform reliably outside a controlled training environment. Practice in realistic situations helps prepare the dog-and-handler team for daily life.

Continuing Support

Training does not end when the dog learns its initial tasks. Skills must be maintained throughout the dog’s working life, and additional coaching may be needed as the handler’s circumstances change.

PAWZ for Patriots trains the dog and the handler as a working team.