I think Dexter is going to be a therapy dog!

[Clyde_Dexter]

Originally Posted by alaskayorkie

As the owner/trainer of two current Yorkie therapy dogs, I'd agree with the group: Dexter sounds like the perfect candidate.

All of the things you mentioned come up in the Pet Partners (formerly Delta Society) test and likely Therapy Dogs International.

Study up on the requirements for testing because much of the test comes from how prepared the handler is and how well the handler interacts with the dog, the evaluator and others involved in the test.

My experience with Pet Partners is evaluators want to see the handler reassuring the dog throughout the test and intervening at the slightest bit of discomfort. They want you to role play with the volunteers and evaluator in the test but always, always, always pay close attention to your dog.

Those things likely will be second-nature to someone with such a good relationship with your dog. Good luck!

Thank you so much! I really loved the advice
At first I had the thought process that I was really just training Dexter to be a therapy dog, but now I know that I have to work on training myself, too!

I'm definitely going to start doing my homework!

[Lap Princess]

Good luck to you & Dexter! He sounds like he has the perfect temperament for the job. Hopefully, you do too!

I think you'll find this endeavor incredibly rewarding.