Therapy Dog Certification

Make a difference with your dog by becoming a registered Therapy Dog team. Our certification class is designed to evaluate and recognize dogs who demonstrate the calm temperament, reliable obedience, and social confidence required to serve in hospitals, schools, senior centers, and other community settings.

 

What to Expect

During this session, your dog will be evaluated on key skills, including controlled greetings, polite behavior in public, response to distractions, and comfort with handling. This is not a training class—handlers and dogs should arrive prepared for testing. Our evaluators provide a supportive, professional environment that sets you and your dog up for success.

 

Who It’s For

This certification is ideal for teams that wish to volunteer in the community through Therapy Dogs International (TDI)  and similar programs. Many participants are graduates of our Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Prep class, but experienced dogs from other training backgrounds may also be ready.

 

Add-On Opportunities: CGC & CGCA

Because many skills overlap, you may choose to complete the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) and/or the AKC Community Canine (CGCA) evaluations during the same session. This convenient option allows your dog to earn multiple certifications at once, streamlining the path toward advanced community work.

 

Requirements

• Most dogs should complete a CGC Prep class prior to testing (exceptions for experienced teams).

• Dogs must be at least 1 year old and in good health.

• Proof of vaccinations is required.

 

Scheduling & Fees

Testing is offered on select dates throughout the year. Spaces are limited, so advance registration is required.

• Therapy Dog Certification: $40

• Optional Add-On: CGC and/or CGCA evaluations: $15 each

 

Ready to Begin?

Join us in making a positive impact—register today and take the next step toward becoming a Therapy Dog team.

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• This class is not suitable for dogs with aggression issues or those that exhibit excessive barking.

  • Please check out our Private Training options for these dogs.

• Dogs must be current on all vaccines, including Distemper/Parvovirus & Bordetella.

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Questions? Contact  kim@lkstevensk9academy.com