How do I adopt a failed service dog? What to Know

How to Adopt a Failed Service Dog

There are many national dog organizations that adopt out canines who fail to make it through training. You’ll often see these dogs referred to as “career change dogs,” since they’re simply changing careers from service animal to pet.

Prices to adopt a career change dog range from $0 to $1,000+. The high prices can be attributed to high demand, as well as the professional training that the dogs receive up until the point of adoption. Speaking of high demand, these organizations often have way more potential adopters than dogs ready to be re-homed. You may have to wait months—or even years—for a dog to become available, which is a very long time if you’re ready to add a new animal companion to your family.

To find adoption requirements, visit the websites of service dog organizations you are interested in. There you’ll see details about what they require and whether any dogs are currently available. You’ll also find links to fill out adoption applications. Be sure to read all of the provided details before applying, and to become familiar with the adoption process and the associated fee.

If you have any questions, just call the organization directly. They’ll almost always be glad to answer any lingering inquiries that you have or give you more information on their individual adoption procedures.

Why Dogs Fail Service Dog Training

Being a service dog is a big job, and not all pups are cut out for it. The reasons are either health-related or behavior-related. Health-wise, dogs may suffer from eye issues like cataracts, joint problems, or have food or other allergies that make it difficult for them to be on top of their game at all times. Behaviorally, things like too much energy, too much friendliness with strangers, or difficulties on leash can disqualify a dog from service training.

On the bright side, a dog who is unqualified for service may be the perfect pup for someone whos simply looking for a pet. Remember that service dogs are working dogs whose handlers rely on them to perform very important tasks, from guiding them through public spaces to sniffing out bombs in airports. Pets, on the other hand, have a lot less responsibility. Things like allergies or too much energy don’t discount their ability to love and be loved, which is essentially the job of our animal companions.

Tips On How To Adopt A Retired Service Dog How to adopt a service dog puppy

Okay, guys and gals. Do you still want to adopt a retired service dog?

Do you want to know the best way to facilitate getting said retired service dog?

After 10+ years of raising guide and service dogs, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to give yourself the best chance to adopt a retired service dog.

  • Get involved with the organization – As a puppy raiser, I have the first opportunity to adopt a career-change puppy that I raised. Stetson was the first puppy I raised and now lives at home with me as a pet. A friend allowed guide dogs to use his facility for monthly meetings. Several years later he was interested in adopting a career change guide dog. The adoption department bumped his name up the waiting list.
  • Find a local service dog organization – After reading through hundreds of assistance dog websites I’ve found that the majority only adopt out locally. Check out our Ultimate List of Service Dog Schools with Adoption Programs to find a local school near you.
  • Make a donation – We know a local business that makes yearly donations to guide dogs to sponsor puppies in the guide dog program. Needless to say, the organization owners have priority anytime they are interested in adopting a career change puppy.
  • Be flexible – I’ve heard through the grapevine that if you are willing to accept a dog with health problems you will have a chance to adopt a retired service dog much quicker. The severity of health issues can vary from simple skin allergies to severe hip or elbow dysplasia. Of course, being flexible is not just about accepting a dog with health issues. Expanding your criteria to any breed, color, age, etc. will give you more opportunities to adopt a dog.
  • Keep in touch – Another tip I heard through the grapevine is don’t just send your application in and wait six years. Follow up regularly, get to know the adoption coordinator, visit the campus, and talk to employees at the school, and puppy raisers. Keep in touch and stay connected. By keeping in touch you’ll find out when puppies are dropped when dogs are retired, and when a dog becomes available.
  • People Can Now Adopt Dogs Who Failed Government Training For Being Too Friendly

    “How can I adopt a retired service dog? or a failed guide dog?” (we like to substitute “career change” for the word “failed”).

    I’m not surprised by this question. Not all puppies in training make it as working guide dogs.

    Not all service dogs work their entire lives. How to adopt a retired service dog or failed guide dog

    And you bet your bottom dollar that these career-change dogs are well socialized, have great house manners and are aces when it comes to basic obedience.

    QUICK RECOMMENDATION: One of the first things we did before bringing home our first puppy was order and read through Puppies for Dummies. It’s an excellent book that teaches the basics of raising and training a puppy. If you’re considering adopting a puppy then be proactive and start reading about what you can expect.

    If you’re thinking about adopting a Yorkshire Terrier, a Bulldog, or an Irish Wolfhound then it’s highly unlikely you will find what you are looking for when trying to adopt from a service dog organization.

    QUICK TIP: As I mentioned the two most common dog breeds in service dog organizations are Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Read up on these two breeds to make sure their personality, temperament, and energy level will fit your lifestyle.

    While I’m not ruling out that you will never be able to adopt one of these or many other dog breeds at a service dog organization I will say it’s highly unlikely.

    Based on our experience here are a few simple facts about what kind of dogs you will find in service dog adoption programs: