Service Dog
vs. Therapy Dog

What’s the Difference?

Understanding the roles of service dogs and therapy dogs is important — both provide incredible value, but they serve very different purposes.

Service Dogs

Puppies bred by Partner Dogs trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities

Golden Retriever service dog in training walking beside its handler down a grocery store aisle during Partner Dogs Canada public access training.

Legally protected and allowed in public spaces

Golden Retriever service dog in training exiting a store with its handler during Partner Dogs Canada public access training exercise.

Trained to assist individuals with various health conditions such as vision impairment with mobility and medical alerting

Golden Retriever service dog in training walking beside its handler during Partner Dogs Canada obedience and public manners session.

Work one-on-one with a single handler to improve daily independence

Golden Retriever service dog in training wearing a green vest during outdoor obedience practice with Partner Dogs Canada

Require intensive, specialized training based on specific medical needs

Therapy Dogs

People who have wonderful family companions can become certified by training their dog to provide comfort and emotional support to many people in a variety of settings

Golden Retriever wearing a red Therapy Dog vest representing Partner Dogs Canada’s certified therapy program.

Not considered service animals under the law

Human hand gently holding a dog’s paw symbolizing trust, compassion, and partnership at Partner Dogs Canada.

Visit hospitals, schools, crisis centres, seniors’ homes, and more

Golden Retriever service dog in training resting its head on a handler’s lap during Partner Dogs Canada comfort exercise.

Offer affection, companionship, and calm — often during stressful times

Happy Golden Retriever from Partner Dogs Canada smiling during training and socialization session.

Focused on socialization, obedience, and emotional sensitivity