The term "therapy dogs" is often used interchangeably with emotional support dogs and service dogs, but the dogs’ roles, training, and legal privileges differ significantly. Similar to therapy dogs, emotional support dogs provide comfort and companionship; however, while therapy dogs provide support to others, the primary focus of emotional support dogs is comforting their caregivers. They are not required to undergo the specialized training and certification required of therapy dogs.

While therapy and emotional support dogs provide comfort, service dogs are specially trained to serve individuals with disabilities, including visual impairment, mobility challenges, or certain medical conditions. Service dogs undergo rigorous training to perform specific tasks that assist their handlers in their daily lives. These tasks may include guiding the visually impaired, alerting to seizures, or providing stability for individuals with mobility issues. Unlike therapy dogs and emotional support dogs, service dogs have legal rights to accompany their handlers in public spaces, including places where pets are not allowed. This privilege is protected by laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States.

In the world of assistance animals, therapy dogs, emotional support dogs, and service dogs all play important but unique roles. While service dogs and emotional support dogs are indispensable to individuals with physical and emotional needs, therapy dogs bring comfort and joy to a broader range of people in various environments. Understanding the distinctions between these types of canine companionships promotes awareness and respect for the incredible work all of the dogs do as they enrich the lives of those they touch.

To learn how to teach your dog the skills of therapy dog work and discover just how big a difference you and your dog can make together, check out our latest course: Therapy Dog Team Training.

Happy Training!