Program Options

Our Service Dog training supports individuals with:

• Psychiatric service needs
• Medical alert tasks
• Mobility assistance
• Other disability-related task requirements

While we do not train formal guide (vision) tasks, we support other types of service work.

You do not need extensive prior dog training experience!

To apply for a Service Dog through Dinah & The Dogs, scroll down and fill out the Initial Interest Form. We will contact you to arrange an interview to determine if you're a good fit for our program.  

Training timelines vary depending on which program you choose and where your dog is starting in the process.

• Started Service Dog:
  Dogs are typically placed at 8 months of age with a strong foundation already in place. From there, clients should expect an additional 12–18 months of continued training to reach full service dog reliability.
• Guided Fully Trained Program:
  This program typically takes 18–24 months total, as your dog rotates between training with us and time at home. This allows for both professional development and real-life integration.
• Fully Trained Service Dog:
  Dogs are trained over the course of approximately 18–24 months prior to placement. After going home, there is still a transition period where the handler learns to work with the dog and maintain training.

Regardless of the program, service dog training is not something that can be rushed. Our goal is to develop a stable, confident, and reliable working dog, and that takes time, consistency, and proper development at each stage.

Successful service dog training is a collaborative process. While we provide professional guidance and structured training, the long-term success of the dog depends heavily on the client’s consistency and follow-through.

All clients are expected to:

• Commit to the training process and understand that developing a service dog takes time, patience, and consistency
• Follow all training plans and recommendations provided by Dinah & The Dogs
• Practice regularly outside of sessions to reinforce skills and maintain progress
• Provide proper care, including veterinary care, nutrition, exercise, and a stable home environment
• Maintain structure and boundaries in the home to support the dog’s training
• Communicate openly and stay engaged throughout the program

Expectations will vary slightly depending on the program selected:

• Started Service Dog:
  Clients should be prepared to take on a high level of responsibility, continuing daily training, and building upon the foundation provided.
• Guided Fully Trained Program:
  Clients are expected to stay actively involved, attend scheduled sessions, and apply what is taught as the dog transitions between training and home life.
• Fully Trained Service Dog:
  While training is completed prior to placement, clients must still be committed to learning how to handle, maintain, and reinforce training to ensure long-term success.

Service dogs require ongoing work throughout their lifetime. This program is best suited for individuals who are ready to invest the time, effort, and consistency needed to build a reliable working partnership.

While based in Memphis, TN, we work with clients from across the U.S. Our sessions may be a mix of:

• In-person training
• Live virtual coaching
• Immersion months on-site

If you’re outside the local area, we’ll walk you through the options for travel, lodging, and session planning.

Each breeder that we work with has been heavily vetted, and we have built a relationship of trust with them. Right now, we place Labrador retrievers, Golden retrievers, Standard Poodles, and English Springer Spaniels.

Yes, we offer structured payment plans to make our programs more accessible.

Most programs can be divided into monthly payments, with options typically ranging from 6 to 24 months depending on the program and timeline. All payments are set up through an automated system and are charged on the same date each month.

Please note:

• A deposit or initial payment may be required to secure your spot
• All payment plans must be completed according to the agreed schedule
• Services may be paused if payments fall behind
• Program fees are non-refundable once training has begun

We’re happy to walk through payment options during your consultation and find a structure that works best for you.