Therapy & Support dogs work through regulated presence: stability, tolerance, and calm interaction in human-facing environments where emotion is the main variable.
Supporting people in care contexts: hospitals, schools, rehabilitation, elder care, and crisis environments — where the dog’s role is to remain safe, gentle, and predictable.
Dogs suited for therapy work tend to be socially stable, low-reactive, and comfortable with unusual human behaviour. They often prefer routine, clear boundaries, and quiet recovery after intense social exposure.
- Very high tolerance to touch, noise, and unpredictable movement
- Low startle response and strong emotional regulation
- Reliable handler control and clear consent-based interaction
- Structured rest and decompression after sessions
Assuming friendliness is enough. Therapy work requires neutrality, resilience, and the ability to stay regulated — not just sociability.