Bigfork Dog Training works one on one with individuals that are seeking guidance training their own dogs for service work. We believe that if an individual needs a Service Dog, they should not be limited by the high cost of a fully trained dog. This is why Bigfork Dog Training offers an affordable Owner Trained Service Dog Program.

Those wanting to join the program must have a disability that qualifies them for a Service Dog. Individuals may train a dog they already own, if it passes evaluations, or we can help to select a dog. Dogs that you already own must go through an evaluation before being allowed into the program to ensure the dog is suited for service work. Evaluation cost is $100 for roughly 30-50min of testing at a pet friendly location. The evaluation does not guarantee that the dog will become a Service Dog. The evaluation weeds out dogs not suited for service work from the beginning. Dogs that enter training may still wash out (fail) later on for many reasons. Frequently the dog demonstrates that he does not enjoy the work, is nervous in public locations, or does not have the desire to task for his handler. Dogs that have human aggression, dog aggression, major anxiety, are nervous in new locations, or have major behavioral issues will not be considered for the program. These are behaviors that can be addressed through Behavior Modifications and Rehabilitation but will never make a good Service Dog.

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The Owner Trained Program is set up for owners to learn how to train their own service dog with regular guidance from Bigfork Dog Training. Clients choose to how often they wish to meet based on their schedule, training needs, and skill level. Please email and discuss with Tara if training your own Service Dog is the best option for you.