Service Dog Shadow Student

Service Dog Shadow Student

Learn how to task service dogs in our service dog shadow student program. You get to first observe and then also work hands-on with service dogs we are training to understand precision tasking.

As a Service Dog Shadow Student, you get to spend an entire week with us. You will participate in all service dog training sessions and have in-depth discussions about those sessions afterward. We will talk about dogs and service dog training all week. You will experience a different kind of relationship building, public access training, and reliable tasking. You can learn about training principles and learning theory. Discuss the importance of genetics and evolutionary psychology. Review training methods, tools, and techniques. And discuss canine health, and so much more. There is no set curriculum, as it varies weekly based on which service dogs we have on-site and what stages of training they are in.

We will work with a multitude of dogs during your week with us. There is plenty of time to talk between the service dog training sessions. In addition, there is plenty of time to talk at the end of each day.

Each Service Dog Shadow Student week is 5 days long and lasts from Monday through Friday. Days include a minimum of 8 hours, often longer. If we are meeting with clients, going on service dog outings, or recording a podcast that week, you get to participate.

Administrative Points

Shadow students are welcome to bring one of their dogs along during shadow week. We can even spend a few hours working on a specific challenge you are struggling with. Personal dogs can mingle with service dogs. We have several dog-friendly hotels close by. We recommend the Residence Inn by Marriott as it is the closest.

Shadow Student weeks are limited and only offered 2 to 3 times a year.

You will be required to sign a release of liability waiver on your first day. You will also be required to sign a confidentiality agreement that pertains to us personally, our business, our client, and our lives and homes. The confidentiality agreement will NOT pertain to any dog-related skills, methods, or knowledge you gain during the shadow week because that would be ridiculous.

Shadow Student weeks are $2000/per week and must be pre-paid in full to reserve one of the limited spots. Booked Shadow Student reservations are non-refundable, but depending on availability, may be able to be rescheduled in case of emergencies.

 

Services and Area

We are located in Southern California and train service dogs nationwide. Hence, Total K9 Focus currently offers local service dog training in several areas. Riverside County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, Los Angeles County, and San Diego County. In addition, we offer our service dog board and train program and all virtual training services nationwide.

Are you looking to get your own service dog? You came to the right place! We are experienced service dog trainers. Consequently, we can help you with any service dog request. For many of our clients, we train a service dog from puppyhood. However, we also evaluate the service dog potential of existing pets or rescue dogs. Our flagship product is our board and train program. In addition, we offer owner-trained service dog support. Further, provide virtual service dog training worldwide.

Further, we can add tasks to an existing service dog you already have. Or help you solve a tasking, training, or behavioral challenge you may face with your current service dog. We offer several service dog financing options to make it possible for you. We recommend you start by reading our article on what makes a good service dog. Next, review the Service Dog Consultation page to understand the high-level process. Finally, once you're ready to move forward, please use our service dog contact form to schedule your free consultation.