Service Dog Task Library
Browse tasks for all types of service dogs. Each task includes step-by-step training instructions, proofing criteria, and troubleshooting tips. Manage your SDIT profiles.
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Nightmare interruption
Advanced — high precision required PSD MULTIDog wakes the handler during a nightmare by licking, nudging, or pawing until the handler is awake.
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Room clear / safety check
Advanced — high precision required PSD MULTIDog searches a room or space on cue and signals to the handler that it is clear of threats.
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Brace / balance support
Advanced — high precision required MOB MULTIDog stands in a stable position and allows the handler to use them for balance or to assist with standing.
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Open and close doors
Advanced — high precision required MOB MULTIDog opens and closes doors, drawers, and other household items using a loop handle or paw.
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Diabetic alert (hypoglycemia)
Advanced — high precision required MED MULTIDog detects the scent of low blood sugar and alerts the handler before it becomes dangerous.
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Seizure alert
Advanced — high precision required MED MULTIDog detects an impending seizure and alerts the handler before it occurs.
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Seizure response
Advanced — high precision required MED MULTIDog responds during or after a seizure to keep the handler safe and summon help.
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Forward guide work
Advanced — high precision required GD MULTIDog guides the handler forward safely, avoiding obstacles and stopping at changes in elevation.
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Tethering — child safety
Advanced — high precision required AUTISM MULTIDog is tethered to a child with autism and walks alongside or slightly ahead, preventing the child from running.
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Meltdown interruption
Advanced — high precision required PSD AUTISM MULTIDog interrupts or redirects a meltdown or self-stimulatory behavior through physical contact or redirection.
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Under command
Beginner — basic task PSD MOB GD HD MED AUTISM ALLERGY MULTI SDITDog goes under a table, chair, or other furniture and remains there quietly.
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Doorbell / knocking alert
Beginner — basic task HD MULTIDog alerts handler when someone rings the doorbell or knocks.
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Name alert
Beginner — basic task HD MULTIDog alerts handler when someone calls the handler's name.
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Sit on cue
Foundation — prerequisite skills PSD MOB GD HD MED AUTISM ALLERGY MULTI SDITThe dog sits on a verbal or hand signal cue reliably.
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Down on cue
Foundation — prerequisite skills PSD MOB GD HD MED AUTISM ALLERGY MULTI SDITThe dog lies down on a verbal or hand signal cue reliably.
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Stay
Foundation — prerequisite skills PSD MOB GD HD MED AUTISM ALLERGY MULTI SDITThe dog remains in a sit or down position until released, regardless of duration, distance, or distraction.
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Heel / loose leash walking
Foundation — prerequisite skills PSD MOB GD HD MED AUTISM ALLERGY MULTI SDITThe dog walks calmly beside the handler with a loose leash or in heel position.
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Leave it
Foundation — prerequisite skills PSD MOB GD HD MED AUTISM ALLERGY MULTI SDITThe dog ignores a designated item, person, or distraction on cue.
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Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT)
Intermediate — more complex PSD AUTISM MULTIDog applies firm, steady pressure to the handler's body, typically the lap, chest, or legs, to provide calming sensory input.
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Grounding / Tactile stimulation
Intermediate — more complex PSD AUTISM MULTIDog nudges, licks, or paws the handler to interrupt dissociation, flashbacks, or panic attacks and bring them back to the present moment.
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Crowd blocking / personal space
Intermediate — more complex PSD AUTISM MULTIDog positions itself to create physical space between the handler and other people in crowded environments.
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Item retrieval
Intermediate — more complex MOB MULTIDog picks up dropped items and delivers them to the handler on cue.
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Light switches
Intermediate — more complex MOB MULTIDog turns light switches on and off using nose or paw.
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Alarm / smoke detector alert
Intermediate — more complex HD MULTIDog alerts handler when a smoke detector, CO detector, or other alarm sounds.
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Find the door
Intermediate — more complex MOB GD MULTIDog locates and leads the handler to a specific door or exit on cue.