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Service Dog

How To Get A Service Dog

We'll guide you step by step to help you choose the right path, whether you need a fully trained service dog or want to train your own.

CHOOSE THE PATH THAT FITS YOU BEST

You can either apply for a fully trained service dog or train your own dog with our guidance

Medical Mutts service dog

FULLY TRAINED SERVICE DOG

  • We match you with a service dog

  • Best for support both at home and in public

  • Includes Team Training and follow-up

service dog in training

TRAIN YOUR OWN SERVICE DOG

  • Work with your current dog

  • Coaching, Group Classes, or Board & Train

  • More flexible and affordable

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

In-home support dog

IN-HOME SUPPORT DOGS

A lower-cost option for individuals who primarily need support, alerting, grounding, or routine assistance at home rather than full public-access training.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

Fully Trained Service Dog

12–24 months (includes matching, training, and placement)

In-Home Support Dog

Typically shorter timelines than full public-access service dogs, depending on the dog and support needs.

Train Your Own Dog

6–12 months, depending on your dog, the training program and consistency

Service dog training_edited.jpg
Medical Alert Service dog

WHAT DOES A FULLY TRAINED SERVICE DOG COST?

Client fees for fully trained service dogs generally range from

$15,000–$25,000

depending on each individual’s circumstances and scholarship support.

These fees help offset only part of the actual cost of raising, training, and supporting a reliable service dog.

We are currently not able to provide fully trained service dogs for less than approximately $15,000.

For individuals looking for lower cost alternatives, we also offer in-home support dogs and train your own dog programs: Board & Train, Private and Group Classes.

WHY DO SERVICE DOGS COST SO MUCH?

Providing a reliable service dog is a complex, multi-step process that requires extensive time, expertise, and resources. 

MONTHS OF TRAINING

Each dog receives months of professional training to learn life-changing tasks, public access skills, and reliable behavior

EXPERT STAFF

Our experienced trainers and support team dedicate their time and expertise to every dog and handler team.

VETERINARY CARE

Ongoing vet care, vaccinations, spay/neuter, and a thorough health evaluation are essential to raising a health service dog

NOT EVERY DOG GRADUATES

Many dogs start the program, but only a portion have the temperament and skills needed to become service dogs.

HOUSING AND DAILY CARE

Food, supplies, equipment, training tools, and daily care, add up every single day

LIFETIME FOLLOW-UP SUPPORT

We continue supporting our teams long after placement with follow-up training, guidance, troubleshooting, and long-term care support.

Service dog in training
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Our mission is to make service dogs as accessible as possible while maintaining the highest standards of training, care and long-term suport.

CHOOSE YOUR PATH

The next step depends on the path you choose

Get a fully trained service dog

We provide, train, and stand behind your service dog, including replacement if needed.

In-Home Medical & Psychiatric Support Dogs

A lower-cost option focused on support, alerting, grounding, and routines at home rather than public-access training.

Train Your Own Dog

Bring your own dog and choose from coaching, classes, or board & train, with expert guidance throughout.

“I got my diabetes alert dog through Medical Mutts, and they were professional and supportive throughout the entire process. They were always available to answer questions and help us problem-solve. Three years later, he’s been a lifesaver and truly part of our family.”

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