Service Dog Training: Guided Support from Home to Public Access
Get real training and real results with Medical Mutts! We're here to help every step of the way. Our trainers are available for support whenever you need it, ensuring you and your dog work together smoothly.
Why Learn with Medical Mutts?
For over 10 years, Medical Mutts has been a leader in service dog training, helping hundreds of owners successfully train their dogs. Our comprehensive program takes about a year and covers around 30 commands, including tasks customized for your needs. By the end, your dog will be ready to assist you, and you can take the Public Access Test (PAT) and Canine Good Citizen (CGC) tests at our Indianapolis facility for certification.
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We specialize in scent detection for medical conditions like diabetes, seizures, and psychiatric disorders. Our positive reinforcement methods focus on building your dog's confidence, avoiding harsh tools, and fostering a love for learning.
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Our module-based learning ensures a smooth training journey, tailored to your dog's needs. We focus exclusively on service dog training, setting us apart from trainers who work primarily with pets.
No Prior Training Needed: Your Complete Service Dog Training Solution
At Medical Mutts, we know not everyone has dog training experience, and that's okay. Starting fresh can actually be an advantage for service dog training. Unlike regular obedience classes, we focus solely on service dog training. Our experienced trainers will teach you everything you need to know. Service dog training requires specific skills that not all trainers have. Our trainers understand these complexities and ensure each lesson builds on the last one smoothly. Don't worry if you haven't trained a dog before. We'll support you every step of the way, ensuring you and your dog are ready for this important journey together.
What's Included?
Exceptional Coaching and Support
You'll have direct access to our trainers and find support and community.
You'll learn effective and kind methods that will increase your dog's confidence and deepen your bond.
You'll access proprietary teaching material including written instructions and tutorial videos for each of the 30+ behaviors
You can repeat the classes as often as you need at no extra cost.
You'll learn how to better understand your dog and solve some of the common behavior problems
You can get certification at our facility upon completion
4 Training Modules
1. Foundation Class
$390.00
In this important class, you'll start your service dog's training journey. From learning ADA laws to mastering basic training principles, this module sets the stage for success. You'll learn how to socialize your service dog, handle fear-related issues, keep a training log, and teach ten key behaviors that service dogs need.
You'll learn how to teach your dog to:
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Pay attention in various settings
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Settle on their bed
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Sit
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Lie down
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Walk without pulling on a leash
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Start medical scent training
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Respond to recall commands ...and much more.
Join us for one weekly hour-long session over a duration of 8 weeks to kickstart your service dog's training journey.
Certification is provided after you complete the entire course and pass the Public Access Test.
3. Specialized Class
$390.00
In this module, we tailor your dog's training to fit your unique requirements. Whether it's diabetes alert, seizure response, allergies, or other scent-related issues, this module covers it all. We also address conditions like autism, PTSD, anxieties, narcolepsy, mobility issues, and more.
You'll learn how to teach your dog to:
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Alert you to medical issues like a drop in blood glucose, a seizure, or a panic attack
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Press a button for assistance
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Fetch needed objects
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Apply deep pressure for comfort
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Assist with balance
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...and much more."
Embark on this 6-week journey to enhance your service dog's skills.
This module is only available when you have completed the previous 2 modules and/or passed our assessments.
Certification is provided after you complete the course and pass the Public Access Test.
2. Intermediate Class
$390.00
In this module, we focus on advanced behaviors, getting your service dog ready for object retrieval and building on our foundational skills. We introduce new skills to broaden your service dog's abilities.
You'll learn how to teach your dog to:
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Maintain a stay with distractions and at a distance
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Lie under a table or your legs
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Pivot into position on your right side
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Perform scent discrimination
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Exhibit alerting behavior
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...and more.
Join us for a 8-week journey to elevate your service dog's abilities.
Certification is provided after you complete the course and pass the Public Access Test.
4. Public Access Test & Certification
$490.00
In this last module, you and your service dog in training will join us at our Indianapolis facility for a 4-day, hands-on workshop. Together, we’ll practice the behaviors you learned in the online modules, this time with our trainers by your side to guide and support you.
We’ll help you navigate the challenges of public access, work through distractions, practice interacting with the public, and review all your training in real-life situations. Our goal is to help you build confidence as a team so you’re ready to handle the real world together.
The workshop concludes with the Public Access Test.
Certification includes a Medical Mutts Service Dog vest, a digital ID valid for one year, and a certification letter.
Annual recertification can be completed virtually for $120.
Disclaimer: This course is not endorsed or approved by Assistance Dogs International. Completing this course will not signify that you are a qualified service dog trainer by Assistance Dogs International.
Secure your spot in our next group class starting on March 29th at 10:30 AM EST. Join our waiting list for a transformative journey with your service dog!
*If you need to get started sooner, we offer private coaching year-round.
Click here for more information.
How to get started?
Does Your Dog Qualify? Before enrolling in our classes, it's important to determine if your dog is a good service dog candidate.
Dog Assessment:
Dogs aged 6 months and older are welcome. Before enrolling, all dogs must pass a temperament and trainability test to assess their service dog potential. Passing the evaluation doesn't guarantee program completion, especially for younger dogs who still have to go through adolescence. The assessment costs $120, and our specialists will guide you through it.
If your puppy is too young for assessment and classes, we offer a service dog preparation package. It includes 5 private 1-hour sessions with our trainers until your puppy is ready ($450).
