How to Train a Service Dog: Mobility assistance

Answer to say: Mobility assistance Field (what the tags mean)

What the dog does: Opens and shuts doors and drawers, pushes automatic door buttons, and turns lights on and off.

You'll need: patience, healthy low-calorie treats, short 5–10 minute sessions, a marker word or clicker, a sticky note or target disc, and a tug strap.

Steps:

1. At home, teach a nose or paw touch to a sticky note. Mark and reward every touch.
2. Move the note next to a light switch, then onto it. Only reward touches that flip the switch. Then take the note away.
3. For doors, teach a tug on a rope toy, then on a strap tied to a cabinet that opens easily. Reward the first small pull, then bigger ones.
4. Teach "shut" by rewarding a nose push or paw on the open cabinet door.
5. Move up to drawers, the fridge, and heavier doors. Add a cue word for each.
6. Practice the push plate on automatic doors at pet-friendly businesses.

Common mistakes: asking for a heavy door before the dog has a light one down; scratched walls. IAADP suggests floor pedals or touch lamps to save your walls.

When to get a pro: if the dog strains, or you need these tasks for daily safety.

Sources: IAADP, tug, nose nudge, and pawing tasks; 4 Paws for Ability (light switches, retrieving); AKC, shaping.

Your condition stays private. When staff ask what your dog is trained to do, just name the task. See What to say when they ask.

These are general training tips, not a substitute for a qualified trainer, your doctor, or your vet. Stop any exercise that hurts or stresses your dog. Sources checked October 19, 2026.