A therapy dog is a dog used in animal-assisted therapy sessions primarily in institutions such as nursing homes, some schools, hospitals, schools, old people’s homes, and prisons. They are great for giving unconditional love and gratitude to people, with no concern as to their age, race, infirmity or background. Want your dog to become one? Therapy dog training is very important in that case.

Not all dogs can become therapy dogs. They need to be assessed and pronounced healthy and clean. A standard test – the TDI CGC test is performed which include sections such as proof of vaccinations, vet’s health certificate, visible cleanliness, visible health, weight level, have stool test results, and annual heartworm tests results.

To start therapy dog training, be easy on yourself and choose a dog that has a natural aptitude to friendliness, calmness and love. Ideally your dog should be curious about the world around him.

When starting training, remember that you need to be firm. Don’t use long sentences, but short, firm orders. ‘Sit’, ‘stay’ etc must be firmly embedded in the dog’s vocabulary. It goes without saying that the animal should be housebroken.

They should be taught to be calm in the presence of strangers, especially when they talk to you.

They should be at home in crowded, noisy, public places, get used to public transport and the hustle and bustle of daily life.

You should also make it abundantly clear that certain habits need to be broken – sniffing at unpleasant items on the ground, licking you or other dogs, barking, whining, and jumping around, all need to be stopped.

Make sure your dog’s health test is not just a one-off. Ensure his health and cleanliness are maintained with regular visits to the vet.

Ensure the dog walks beside you with a loose leash. He must obey you fully and without hesitation.

Be firm, but be kind, and your dog will turn into a great Therapy Dog.

Source:ezinearticles.com