Service Dog Training Programs

Choosing to bring a service dog into your life is a life-changing decision that requires careful thought, preparation, and long-term commitment. A well-trained service dog can offer increased independence, improved safety, and essential daily support—but reaching that level of reliability requires expert guidance, time, and effort.

BK9’s Service Dog Training Programs are designed to support individuals through every stage of the process. Whether a client is beginning their search for a suitable dog or seeking to train a current companion, BK9 provides professional evaluation, customized training, and ongoing mentorship.

Step 1: Virtual Interview & Needs Assessment

This is when we will answer your questions, gather information about your dog and your needs, give you important information about service dog training as well as training recommendations to get started.

FEE: $125 for 45-minute session

Step 2: Dog Selection & Evaluation

A successful service dog partnership begins with the right dog. BK9 assists in identifying suitable candidates—either through breeder referrals or evaluating dogs you already own or acquire independently.

Each evaluation considers factors like size, energy, motivation, temperament, and the dog’s response to minor stressors. The goal is to determine the dog’s suitability for service work and specific tasks.

Step 3: Customized Training Plan

Training is customized to the individual needs of each dog-handler team and may include:

  • Foundation obedience and life skills

  • Public access training

  • Disability-specific task training

Training is delivered through a combination of services, which may include:

  • Private in-person sessions

  • Virtual coaching

  • Board & Train programs

  • Day training

  • Group classes (if appropriate)

Service dog training typically takes 1–2 years or more. BK9 offers hourly and package pricing to provide flexibility throughout the process.

Rates: Hourly and package pricing available upon request

Step 4: Ongoing Support & Maintenance

Once a dog is working reliably, follow-up support ensures training is maintained over time. BK9 offers continued coaching and re-evaluation as needed throughout the working life of the dog.

Rates: See hourly and package options

Who Is This Program For?

BK9 works with individuals who:

  • Are beginning their service dog journey and need help selecting a suitable candidate

  • Already have a dog and want professional evaluation for service suitability

  • Are seeking help with task training, foundational obedience, or public access skills

  • Want long-term support and mentorship through the full training process

Program Requirements

Owner Requirements

To participate in this program, handlers must:

  • Have a qualifying disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

  • Be 18 years or older, or have active adult participation and support

  • Be able to attend training sessions regularly over an extended period (typically 1–2 years or more)

  • Be committed to practicing and reinforcing training consistently between sessions

  • Understand that not all dogs are able to complete service dog training or gain public access rights

  • Have documented support from a licensed healthcare provider recommending the use of a service dog

Dog Requirements

Dogs must:

  • Be under the age of 4 and in good physical health (orthopedically sound, no chronic conditions)

  • Have no history of aggression toward people, animals, or other dogs

  • Be easily trainable, with a temperament appropriate for service work

  • Have no history of severe behavior issues such as extreme fear, separation anxiety, or reactivity

  • Be assessed on an individual basis, with preference given to breeds or mixes with proven service dog aptitude (e.g., Labradors, Golden Retrievers)

Why Choose BK9?

Service dog training is not a one-size-fits-all process. It’s a long-term partnership requiring clarity, consistency, and care. BK9 takes a realistic, ethical, and personalized approach—prioritizing both the dog’s well-being and the handler’s individual goals.

Clients receive:

  • Honest evaluation and feedback

  • Structured, evidence-based training plans

  • Flexible training formats tailored to lifestyle and location

  • Continued mentorship throughout the dog’s working life

Ready to Get Started?

Please contact BK9 to schedule your initial consultation or to request additional information about the Service Dog Training Programs.