5 Traits We Look for in Service Dogs
At Valor K9 Academy, we take pride in offering professional service dog training in Boise, Idaho, led by expert trainer Amy Pishner. Selecting the right dog for service work is absolutely crucial to long-term success—and not every dog is cut out for the job. Before investing months (or years) into training, we look for specific traits that predict success.
Here are five of the most important qualities we evaluate when identifying potential service dogs:
1. Temperament: Stable, Confident, and Neutral
Temperament is the single most important trait. A potential service dog should be confident in new environments, neutral around other animals and people, and capable of adapting to a variety of stimuli. Nervous, fearful, or reactive dogs typically do not do well in public access work.
At our Boise service dog training facility, we focus on early exposure and thorough evaluations to ensure your dog is well-suited for this role.
2. Trainability: A Willing, Eager Learner
Dogs chosen for service work must be highly trainable. They should want to work with you—not for treats, but because they enjoy engaging with you and want to please. We often look for dogs with a strong food drive and good work ethic who can remain focused even with distractions present.
3. Nerve Strength: Calm Under Pressure
Strong nerves are critical. Dogs in service roles must remain calm and collected in the face of loud noises, fast-moving people, slippery surfaces, and unpredictable events. They need to process the world around them without becoming overstimulated or shut down.
This is why we evaluate nerve strength early in our Boise-based service dog program, using real-world exposure and customized training environments.
4. Health & Structure: Built to Work
Health and physical structure are essential. Service dogs are working dogs—they need strong joints, solid structure, and endurance to perform their jobs daily. Before starting our training programs, we assess dogs for structural integrity and require full veterinary clearance including OFA or PennHIP evaluations and a thorough vet exam.
5. Bond: The Dog-Human Relationship
Finally, the bond between handler and dog is everything. A good service dog deeply connects with their person, responds intuitively to them, and enjoys their company. Dogs who are aloof or overly handler-sensitive often struggle to meet the demands of this role.
At Valor K9 Academy, I, Amy Pishner, personally guide you through the bonding and training process so your service dog becomes a reliable, trusted partner for life.
Looking for a Service Dog in Boise?
Whether you already have a dog or are starting from scratch, Valor K9 Academy offers expert service dog training in Boise, Idaho. I work closely with each client to evaluate dogs, build custom training plans, and ensure both dog and handler succeed.
From puppy selection and temperament testing to obedience, public access, and task training, I’m here to help every step of the way.
Ready to Begin?
Contact us to schedule a consultation and start your service dog journey today. We’ll help you determine whether your dog is a good candidate—or help you find one that is.
Valor K9 Academy – Boise, Idaho
Trainer: Amy Pishner
Specialties: Service Dogs | Obedience | Puppy Training
Read our puppy guide for service dogs.
Written by Amy Pishner
About the Author:
Amy Pishner is the Founder of Valor K9 Academy, a veteran-owned dog training company in Boise, Idaho. With over a decade of experience training thousands of dogs, Amy specializes in balanced dog training that builds trust, obedience, and lasting results.