We have exciting news: we found a new way to celebrate dogs!  

Every August 4th, people around the world celebrate Assistance Dog Day. Roughly ¼ of all adults in the U.S. identify as having a disability, and many are supported by service dogs who provide emotional support, independence, and companionship – all while being exceptionally cute. 

In honor of this holiday and these incredibly good doggos, we’ve outlined a few types of service dogs, the amazing jobs they can do, and some of the common misconceptions that often cloud the understanding of their roles. 

Types of Service Dogs and Their Roles

Guide Dogs

Guide dogs are perhaps the most well-known type of service dogs. They assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired, helping them navigate their environment safely. These dogs are trained to avoid obstacles, stop at curbs and stairs, and follow specific routes. They were the first type of Service Dog officially utilized, and have a long history of providing their handlers with the confidence and independence to move through the world more freely. 

Learn more from Stephanie, who works together with her Guide Dog Nala to navigate the world. 

Psychiatric Service Dogs

Psychiatric service dogs are trained to assist individuals with mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety disorders, and depression. These dogs perform tasks that help mitigate the effects of these conditions. For example, they might interrupt self-harming behaviors, remind their handlers to take medication, provide grounding during panic attacks, wake someone who struggles with oversleeping or nightmares, and/or create a physical barrier in crowded spaces to reduce anxiety.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

Emotional support animals provide comfort and companionship to individuals with emotional or psychological conditions. Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks. Their primary role is to provide emotional stability and reduce symptoms of their handler’s condition. ESAs can be any type of animal, but dogs are the most common.

Other Service Dogs

While this is not an exhaustive list, you may also meet mobility dogs, hearing assistance dogs, and detection dogs who can warn their handlers of life threatening allergies, diabetic concerns, and oncoming seizures.

Check out PDG’s recent service dog day here!

Common Misconceptions About Service Dogs

1. All Service Dogs are the Same – FALSE

One common misconception is that all service dogs perform the same tasks. In reality, to be considered a Service Dog, each dog must be trained for specific roles based on their handler’s needs. Guide dogs, psychiatric service dogs, and mobility assistance dogs, for example, have distinct, intensive training programs tailored to their specific functions.

2. Service Dogs are Always Working – FALSE

While service dogs are trained to perform essential tasks, they are not always on duty. Like any dog, they need time to rest, play, and simply be a dog. Service Dogs also don’t work forever; most retire between the ages of 8 and 12 (depending on their health and wellbeing). 

3. Service Dogs Can Only Assist People with Physical Disabilities – FALSE

Many people believe that service dogs are only for individuals with physical disabilities. That’s simply not true! Service dogs assist with a wide range of disabilities, including psychiatric and neurological disorders. 

4. Emotional Support Animals Have the Same Rights as Service Dogs – FALSE

There is often confusion between emotional support animals and service dogs regarding their legal rights. Service dogs are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and are allowed in public places where pets are typically not permitted. Emotional support animals, on the other hand, are not granted the same access rights under the ADA but are covered under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) for accommodation purposes. Check out this page from the ADA for more clarification around the differences between Services Dogs and Emotional Support Animals. 

5. Anyone Can Pet a Service Dog – FALSE

While they may be cute, a Service Dog’s job is to help its handler, and they might need to focus. ALWAYS ask before petting, and don’t be offended if the handler says no. 

While dogs of all kinds are loved and appreciated by millions around the globe, service dogs are extra special, as they are specially trained to be invaluable companions for individuals with disabilities. Regardless of whether or not you have a service dog, understanding the different types of service dogs and their unique roles can help dispel common misconceptions and foster greater appreciation for these dedicated animals. 

Whether guiding the visually impaired, offering psychiatric support, or providing companionship, these dogs transform lives every day, and we’re so grateful for all of the hard work they do. We hope you’ll be able to appreciate a special service dog in your life this August 4th on Assistance Dog Day!