The Service Dog Rule: Do Not Touch or Distract Them

The Service Dog Rule: Do Not Touch or Distract Them

If you adore dogs, you've undoubtedly struggled to "mind your manners" in the sight of assistance animals. These canines are almost seductive because they are so lovely and carry themselves with such quiet dignity.

But we must resist.

The rule of thumb is to not touch or disturb the dog when he is on duty or training to serve. This is because associating with a working or training dog may endanger the other half of his team - his owner.

It may also disrupt the dog's attention and impair his ability to take up commands.

If you're unsure about correct etiquette while seeing a working dog, the following are some do's and don'ts regarding conduct in the presence of a service dog team (dog and owner).

DO SPEAK TO THE OWNER/HANDLER, NOT THE DOG, ABOUT BEHAVIOR AROUND A SERVICE DOG TEAM.

The service dog and her handler work together as a team. If you wish to chat with them, always approach the human first before approaching the dog. Remember, the animal is working, and her human life may rely on her ability to stay concentrated on her task.

DO NOT TOUCH THE DOG WITHOUT FIRST ASKING PERMISSION.

Touching or stroking a working dog might be distracting and hinder him from attending to his human companion. You don't want to get in the way of the dog's completion of a command or direction given by his person.

Fortunately, most service dogs are trained to remain in work mode until their handler issues a release order. As a result, many service dogs are able to disregard external pressures.

DO NOT PROVIDE FOOD TO A SERVICE DOG.

"Food is the greatest distraction to the working dog and can imperil the working assistance dog team," according to Canine Companions for Independence.


Food and treats are not simply a possible distraction, but many service dogs are given a specified diet and generally on a strict schedule.

DO show care and respect to the owner/handler.

Personal queries concerning a service dog's handler's impairment are not permitted. It's impolite and an invasion of privacy.

Assume the service dog team can manage the situation on their own. If you believe they may benefit from your assistance, ask first. And, if your offer is refused, don't take it personally; there's generally a valid reason for it.

DON'T BELIEVE A SLEEPING SERVICE DOG IS OFF DUTY.

All dogs, especially working dogs, take naps. It's totally natural and proper for a service dog to catch a few winks when her handler is sitting or standing for an extended period of time. However, she is still officially at work, so all dos and don'ts apply.

If a service dog approaches you, notify the handler.

Inform the handler if a working dog approaches, sniffs, nudges, or approaches you in any other way. Refrain from responding to the dog; the handler will reprimand the dog.

DO NOT BELIEVE that assistance dogs are never allowed to 'simply be dogs.'

Working dogs usually receive a lot of rest and playtime. When they go home and are no longer wearing their "work attire," they may be like any other dog. Because the work these magnificent creatures perform is sometimes demanding and stressful, their handlers understand that they require lots of relaxation and exercise.