Frequently Asked Questions
Family Dog - Foundation Training for Assistance Dogs
Will the Family Dog Foundation Training for Assistance Dogs
course teach me how to train a well-mannered dog for public settings to assist me or a family member?
Yes, this foundation course equips you with essential training modules through clear and engaging video tutorials to a silver level. You’ll learn how to coach your family dog to build confidence, develop good manners, enhance social skills, and adapt to public environments. The course also covers animal welfare, legal considerations, understanding your dog’s behaviour and communication, and how to coach your dog practical training activities for everyday tasks.
I don’t need a fully qualified assistance dog, just a companion dog that behaves well in public. Can this course help?
Absolutely! This course is ideal for training your dog to behave appropriately in public using reward-based, force-free methods and non-aversive tools. You’ll learn how to address unwanted behaviours like jumping up, eating food or other toxic substances on the floor for example, and how to prepare your dog to be well mannered in public.
Additionally, our network of Therapy Dog Training Trusted Trainers across the UK
is available for live support sessions if needed at an additional cost payable directly to the trainer.
My dog is shy and timid. Can she still help me manage my anxiety in public places?
Some dogs are naturally uneasy in public environments, which can cause stress for both of you. This course emphasizes building confidence and resilience while
ensuring your dog is happy and comfortable in unusual surroundings.
We also offer access to over 65 qualified trainers and behaviourists who can provide a gentle assessment of your dog’s temperament to ensure they will be happy in environments away from home and help with any additional training needs. Please note, this optional service incurs extra charges.
Important: A temperament assessment from a TDT UK Trusted Trainer is not
equivalent to a Public Access Test. For information about eligibility and standards for public access testing click here
Will this course prepare my puppy or young dog to become a fully qualified assistance dog?
This course is designed to help you owner train an assistance dog and help you
teach your dog the foundational skills that all therapy and assistance dogs
need—like confidence, social skills, and good manners in public settings. However we must stress, it does not replace the specialised training provided by organizations like Hearing Dogs, Support Dogs, or Medical Assistance Dogs.
Our course is especially helpful for those unable to attend live dog training sessions and includes guidance on preparing for a TDT UK Public Access Test for those who are eligible. It also provides comprehensive resources for developing a strong bond and effective communication with your dog.
I have a specific health condition that requires specialized dog
support. Will this course help?
If you need a dog trained to address specific sensory, physical, or medical needs, we recommend contacting an ADUK-accredited Assistance Dog organisation. Beware of organizations charging high fees for unverified assistance dog training. ADUK organizations, such as Dog A.I.D. and Dogs for Good, also offer live based owner-trained programmes, our free download offers more info on other assistance dog organisations.
Our Family Dog – Foundation Training for Assistance Dogs course can
complement these programs, providing foundation dog training, welfare essentials, and preparation for a Public Access Test if you are eligible.
Can I train my dog remotely if my health or schedule prevents live classes?
Yes! Our online framework is designed for flexible, at-home training with easy-to-
follow video tutorials. Many of our clients have successfully trained their dogs using this approach, even with little prior experience. With short sessions of daily practice, you and your dog will make great progress, and you can involve family members in the training journey.
Can I train a puppy for specialised assistance needs using this
course?
Refer to questions 2 and 3 for detailed guidance on owner-training for assistance
needs. Our course is an excellent resource for first-time puppy owners and older
dogs needing basic training. It covers essential development milestones, good
manners, and obedience skills. You’ll learn at your own pace with a curriculum
designed to achieve advanced training equivalent to a silver standard.
Do you offer a Public Access Test or certification?
This course provides guidance on preparing for a Public Access Test, including
eligibility criteria and how to arrange testing. Depending on your needs, we may
assist directly via our own TDT Public Access Assessment or refer you to an
ADUK-accredited organisation or via another independent process through ADAA. This is often dependent on your geographical location and your personal
circumstances.
Please note that solid foundational training is required before pursuing public access certification. This course helps you develop all the necessary skills and behaviours for success.
Can I access live, professional support for my dog’s training or
temperament assessment?
Yes! Our network of over 65 qualified trainers and behaviourists across the UK offers one-to-one or class-based training sessions. They can provide informal assessments of your dog’s behaviour and their well-being and suitability for public settings (temperament assessment), as well as address specific training needs. Fees for this service are arranged directly with your chosen trainer. *Please note: we do not train UK banned breeds or breeds who cannot obtain UK insurance.*