Dog Training Services
Service Dog Training & Program Certification
Obedience, public manners and disability-related task training, with instruction for the handler and assessment throughout the program.
Service Dogs of Southern Nevada, a 501(c)(3) company, offers a three-phase training program for service dog teams. It covers obedience, public manners and disability-related tasks, followed by the program’s Public Access Certification Test (PACT). Program certification documents the training completed here.
Under the ADA, a service dog is trained to perform work or tasks related to a person’s disability. The ADA does not require professional training or certification. The three-task minimum described here is this program’s standard, not an ADA requirement.
Service Dogs of Southern NV trains many dogs for veterans (and others) with PTSD, for mobility and balance (ataxia) issues, and for people with psychiatric conditions. Service dogs are not considered pets by law. Ira Smith is a provider member of the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP), and veterans and first responders can also apply through the sister non-profit, Service Dogs of Southern Nevada™.
For public-access, housing and travel rules, see the official resources and program explanation.
The three-phase program
- Phase I: Basic and advanced fundamentals of obedience
- Phase II: Socialization and command reinforcement in public locations
- Phase III: Task orientation to mitigate a disability (minimum of three tasks)
- Public Access Certification Test (PACT) administered when the team is ready
- Handler instruction throughout: the owner learns to work the dog correctly
- Training-hour documentation and certification supplied by The K-9 Handler® as the training entity
- Training your current dog, or help selecting a suitable candidate
Why owners choose The K-9 Handler®
Documented training
Ira documents the training and assessment completed through this program. A training certificate does not create public-access rights.
Built for veterans
Ira is a USAF veteran dog handler who has trained many PTSD and mobility service dogs for fellow veterans. The veteran-focused non-profit side is Service Dogs of Southern Nevada™.
Real public access
Teams train in stores, malls, libraries and restaurants so the dog is reliable anywhere the law lets you go.
Honest timelines
It typically takes 18–24 months to fully train a service dog. You will get a realistic plan, not a shortcut.
Related training
Service Dog Training: common questions
How do I get my dog certified as a service dog?
The K-9 Handler® documents completion of its own training and assessment program. ADA access does not depend on buying a certificate or joining a registry.
Do I need a vest or ID card?
The ADA does not require a vest or ID card. Air travel and housing have separate rules and may involve documentation. Use the official resources linked on our certification page.
How long does service dog training take?
This program typically takes 18–24 months, depending on the dog, task goals and practice. Ask Ira how the phases would apply to your team.
Can you train the dog I already have?
Often, yes. Temperament, health and drive are assessed at the evaluation. If your dog is not a suitable candidate, Ira can help you select one that is.
What is a Public Access Certification Test (PACT)?
A structured test of a service dog team in real public settings (stores, restaurants, elevators and crowds), confirming the dog is under control, unobtrusive and reliable. It is administered when all training hours and phases are complete.
Ready to start service dog training?
Tell Ira what you’d like to change. The in-home evaluation and first lesson take 2–3 hours and cost $199, included in every package.
Questions? Email Ira