What are desirable characteristics of a service dog?
First of all, it is critical to choose a dog that has the desirable character traits for a service dog, including intelligence, desire to work, mild manners, and lack of aggression. A service dog must be obedient and the handler must be certain that the dog will not lash out in fear when under stress. Dogs which are territorial or can’t tolerate rough treatment will not succeed as service dogs. One should be cautioned not to try to train an ordinary pet to be a service dog. One doesn’t go to the local animal shelter or dog pound to pick a dog and turn it into a service dog. There is a screening process needed to ensure that the dog is up to the task, because some dogs are better suited than others for this job. Service dogs should be chosen by professionals who have knowledge and experience in picking service dogs. There are breeding programs designed to pass on desirable genes and traits to generations of dogs. For example, in the case of seizure alert dogs, one has to screen for the
