Freedom Assistance Dog Training Program

If you're looking for one-on-one training for your dog, our private training sessions are perfect for you. We'll work with you and your dog to train you as team for the standards of the Public Access Test. 

We will teach you how to train your dog, and work along side you as your train your dog to become an assistance dog. 

We are able to support NDIS and non-NDIS clients. 

We are here to assist you  in picking a puppy that will become your assistance dog.  The breed of dog needs to be appropriate to your needs, for example, a small breed would not be appropriate if you require assistance to turn on light switches.  The dogs temperament is also important, so we are happy to work with breeders you have identified to assist in obtaining the best puppy for your particular needs.  

We will help you settle you puppy into its new home and set you both up for success from the beginning. 

Our  assistance dog puppy training program is designed to help you and you puppy develop a life long bond that will increase your ability to work as an assistance dog team.  You and your pup will learn basic commands and socialization skills that they need to thrive as an assistance dog. We use positive reinforcement techniques that make training fun and rewarding for your puppy, and cement their bond with you.

We will help you choose appropriate training tools for you puppy and provide lesson in the  proper use of these tools. 

Our basic skills training program is perfect for dogs of all ages and breeds. We'll work with you and your dog to teach them basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Our training methods are positive and gentle, so your dog will learn quickly without any stress or frustration.

Once your dog has mastered the basic skills we will start working towards you and your dog mastering the criteria of the public access test (PAT).  It can take up to 12 months to 2 years to achieve a pass in the  PAT, each dog and team are different.  Allow yourself the time it takes to be a qualified team and do not rush the process, as this can damage your relationship with your dog.  During this time you will also start training your dog in the behaviours you require to support your disability. 

You will be provided with a diary to record all training sessions and hours and what was achieve and what is needed to be achieved by the next session. 

Upon completion of the assistance dog behaviour training we will assess you as a team according to the guidelines set out under the GHA PAT.  Upon passing of the assessment you will receive a assistance dog licence and jacket.  you will be required to continue the training of your dog between PAT exams, a minimum of 100 hours a year, which needs to be recorded in your assistance dog diary.  Re-assessment is required every 12 months.