Assistance Dogs

Assistance dogs are specifically trained to perform work for a person with a disability. Harmony & Hounds offers three options: applying for a program dog or joining our owner-training program. All of our assistance dogs complete extensive training and are held to a high standard of excellence. Contact us for more information.

Program Dogs

Program dogs are trained and placed by Harmony & Hounds. Program dogs receive foundational training and then move on to continue their education with a puppy raiser. Dogs are matched once they are ready to start learning taskwork. The assistance dog completes their taskwork training and its evaluation process. Upon program completion, the assistance dog and its handler will complete a public access test and final verification. Individuals must complete an application process before being accepted into the Harmony & Hounds assistance dog program.

Owner-Trainer Program

Harmony & Hounds is excited to offer an owner-trainer program for handlers training their own assistance dog. Private lessons are available to those who want assistance on an "as needed" basis. Lessons can cover anything in the assistance dog process from socialization to basic obedience to public access skills. Owner-trainers are eligible to complete the Harmony & Hounds public access test. Individuals must complete an application process before being accepted into the Harmony & Hounds owner-trainer program. Stay tuned for openings in our online academy.

Owner-Trainer Hybrid Program

Harmony & Hounds hybrid program is a mix of the program dog and owner-trainer programs. Our trainers provide foundational and puppy training for your assistance dog. Once foundational work is completed, the assistance dog is matched and moves to the handler's home and continues their training and raising there. The assistance dog then returns to our trainers to complete advanced training and task work. Individuals must complete an application process before being accepted into the Harmony & Hounds owner-trainer hybrid program.

Not sure which program is right for you? Contact us and we will assess your individual needs to assist you in choosing the right program for you.