Service dogs are some of the hardest-working dogs out there. They have to go through months to years of training, and they work hard to keep their handlers safe, happy, and healthy. With all of this work, you may be wondering, can service dogs play with other dogs?
Thankfully, service dogs can play with other dogs under the right circumstances, and as such, hard workers definitely deserve a break from time to time. That said, playing should only be done under the supervision of a handler and when they’re off-duty, or you may run into big problems.
The good news is that we’re here to take you through everything you need to know. Read on to learn more.
What Is a Service Dog?
First and foremost, it’s important to know what a service dog is before we jump into how they play. Service dogs are highly trained dogs that help people who have physical and mental disabilities. Doctors or licensed mental health professionals can recommend them, and service dogs usually have to go through professional training for several years. There are then tests that dogs have to pass, and they’re often matched to a specific handler.
After service dogs get too old, they may retire and become regular pets, but they’ll still be well-trained dogs that know a ton of commands! It’s also important to note that service dogs aren’t your average dogs; they’re working dogs that have protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Essentially, service dogs are able to go into public spaces, ride in airplanes, and, of course, live in housing that’s not traditionally pet-friendly.
When Can Service Dogs Play With Other Dogs?
Service dogs can play with other dogs when they’re not on duty or when they’re going through the training process; socialization is a key aspect of this process. If a service dog is pushing someone’s wheelchair, for example, you shouldn’t encourage your dog to play with them. Learn about some examples of when this is acceptable below.
Controlled Situations
The handler always needs to be in control, so if the handler believes that the dog can handle a little socialization, it shouldn’t be a big issue. Make sure the service dog is comfortable and that the other dog has the temperament necessary to play with a service dog without harming them. The handler should also be in a position where they don’t need the dog right away.
During Training
During service dog training is a great time to let them play and socialize with other dogs. Since service dogs need to be able to not get distracted in public, they need to be exposed to other dogs and animals at a young age. For this reason, with the right trainer, it’s not a bad idea to let them engage in a little fun during their service dog training routine.
They’re Retired
Service dogs don’t always work, and they get to retire too, once they reach a certain age. Once they retire, you can help them play with others and even other dogs under close supervision. In fact, this is one of the best times to let them play with other dogs.
Things to Consider When Service Dogs Play with Other Dogs
While it’s okay to let your service dogs play with other dogs on occasion, there are some risks you need to know. We cover these risks down below.
Risk of Unwanted Behaviors
The biggest issue is the risk of unwanted behaviors. When service dogs interact with other dogs, there’s a chance that they may pick up bad habits – they are dogs after all. For example, if your service dog is playing with another dog, they may bark, dig, and even chew on things after the play session is over.
Injury Risk
Unfortunately, there’s a risk of injury when your service dog plays with another dog. Playing can get aggressive, and service dogs may not know how to handle that type of behavior. If this results in injury, it’s not just the service dog that suffers, but also their handler, because they’re vital to their handler’s health.
Distracting
There’s a time and a place to let your service dog play with other dogs. This is because service dogs playing with other dogs may get distracted, and that can put their handlers in jeopardy if something happens. Furthermore, service dogs who are playing may have a tough time going back to the grind after spending time with other dogs.
Service Dogs Can Have Fun Too!
Service dogs might not be pets, but everyone needs a little R&R sometimes, even your canine companion. Giving a service dog some time off to socialize with other dogs and play goes a long way in keeping them happy and healthy. That said, make sure you’re careful and remember that service dogs should mostly play with their handlers to prevent any unwanted behaviors.
Table of Contents