Best breeds for psychiatric service dogs

No breed requirement under the law

The ADA defines a service animal by its training, not its breed. The Department of Justice says the ADA doesn't restrict the type of dog breeds that can be service animals, and a business can't refuse a service dog based only on breed or assumptions about how a breed behaves. A dog may be excluded only for its own actual behavior, such as being out of control.

Air travel rules say the same. The Department of Transportation defines a service animal as a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability. Local breed bans generally must make exceptions for service dogs unless an individual dog poses a direct threat, decided case by case.

Service dog temperament traits

The American Kennel Club describes the qualities that help a dog succeed as a service dog. These traits vary among individual dogs within every breed, so it's worth looking at the dog in front of you rather than the label.

• Calm, especially in new or busy places
• Alert without being reactive
• Eager to work with its handler
• Able to learn and remember new skills
• Comfortable around many people, sounds and environments
• Reliable when repeating the same task many times
• Focused on the handler and resistant to distractions

Common psychiatric service dog breeds

The AKC notes that Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherd Dogs are among the most common breeds in guide and service work. Poodles, in Standard, Miniature and Toy sizes, are described as especially versatile, and some handlers prefer them for their low-shedding coat. The AKC's list of popular service breeds also includes Bernese Mountain Dogs, Great Danes, Collies, American Staffordshire Terriers and Pomeranians.

These breeds are popular partly because they've been bred for cooperation and steadiness. Still, a well-bred Labrador can be anxious, and a mixed-breed rescue can be a natural. The AKC states that any breed or mix can be considered.

Size and energy for your tasks

Think about what you need the dog to do. Deep pressure therapy, where the dog lies across your lap or chest, usually works best with a medium or large dog. Creating space in a crowd also tends to suit a larger dog. Tasks like waking you from nightmares, interrupting repetitive behaviors or retrieving a medication pouch can be done by dogs of many sizes.

Consider your daily life, too. A high-energy working breed may need more exercise than you can provide on difficult days, while a giant breed may be hard to fit under an airplane seat or in a small apartment. The Department of Transportation allows airlines to refuse a service dog that is too large or heavy to be accommodated in the cabin.

Grooming and shedding also matter if you live with allergies, share housing or work in close quarters. A coat that needs frequent professional grooming adds ongoing cost and time, so factor that into your choice alongside size and energy level.

How to assess a service dog candidate

If you're choosing a puppy or adult dog for service work, ask a qualified trainer to help evaluate temperament before you commit. Watch how the dog handles new places, unexpected noises, strangers and handling of its paws and ears. A dog that recovers quickly from a startle and stays curious rather than fearful is a good sign.

Ask a veterinarian about health issues common to the breed, since a service dog needs to work comfortably for years. If you get a puppy from a breeder, ask about health screening of the parents.

Be realistic. The AKC notes that the drop-out rate for service dog candidates can run as high as 50% to 70%, even in programs. No breed choice can promise success, and a dog that doesn't suit service work can still be a loved companion.

Training matters more than breed

Whatever breed you choose, the dog becomes a psychiatric service dog through training in specific disability-related tasks and solid public manners. Humane, reward-based training with a qualified trainer gives any suitable dog the best start.

When your dog is trained or in training and you need documentation for housing or travel planning, usaPsdletter.com offers an evaluation with a licensed clinician. A letter is issued only when the clinician finds it appropriate.