Emotional Support Dog (ESD) Training | Specialty Dog Training

Emotional Support Dog Training & Placement

At Specialty Dog Training™, we design customized programs to elevate your dog’s natural ability to provide love, comfort, and support. Whether you’d like us to work with your current pet or provide a pre-trained emotional support dog (ESA/ESD), our programs are built to deliver a loyal companion with advanced obedience, excellent manners, and the ability to provide meaningful support in daily life.

Pre-Trained Emotional Support Dogs

For those seeking a fully prepared companion, we also hand-select and place trained adult emotional support dogs. Our team considers your lifestyle, needs, and preferences, then sources the right dog based on temperament, size, and ability.

If you request a specific breed, you are responsible for acquisition costs.
For adoption/rescue placement, the average fee is ~$500 (only relevant when SDT provides the dog).
Once selected, the dog completes our comprehensive training before being placed with you.
A detailed one-on-one handler transfer program ensures you’re fully confident with your new dog at home and in public.

Important Note: Dogs with aggression, significant anxiety, fear issues, or major medical concerns are not eligible for ESA/ESD training.

Graham Bloem and his Specialty Dog Training Team are the best in the business! I searched globally for a year for my canine companion to enjoy the golden years. Having family pets throughout my life, I knew that the choice I made was similar to adopting a child. I had very specific needs on my want list: Breed, sex, age, specialty training, physical characteristics, personality, and, most of all, a family member to love and be loved by all who visit our home. Graham went above and beyond my expectations in his personal involvement in my case. The result was perfect. Reina, the queen of our hacienda. Our lab retriever, with a heart of gold, trained like a service dog, yet full of playful energy and joy.
DENIS WAITLEY

What Is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA/ESD)?

An emotional support animal (also called an emotional support dog) is a companion animal that provides comfort and helps alleviate symptoms of certain conditions. Unlike service dogs, ESAs/ESDs do not have full public access rights and are not considered service animals. However, they play a critical role in improving quality of life and offering emotional balance.

Certification & Advanced Standards

All SDT emotional support dogs are prepared to take and pass recognized exams, including:

AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC)
AKC Community Canine (CGCA)
AKC Urban CGC (CGCU)

Our ESA/ESD training also serves as a stepping stone toward service dog training for clients who may require higher levels of support in the future.

Life With an SDT-Trained Emotional Support Dog

An SDT pre-trained emotional support dog is more than a pet—they are a carefully selected, highly trained companion who:

Has undergone temperament testing, obedience training, and extensive socialization.
Is prepared for diverse environments, from neighborhood walks and hiking trails to busy outdoor markets and dog-friendly cafes.
Maintains excellent control and composure under environmental pressure and stress.
Lives as both a loyal family companion and a reliable source of emotional support.

👉 Ready to take the next step? Schedule your discovery call today to discuss your goals, explore available pre-trained dogs, or learn more about enrolling your current pet in our ESA/ESD training programs.

Emotional Support Dog Training FAQs

Can my current dog become an Emotional Support Dog (ESA/ESD)?

Yes, if your dog has the right temperament, health, and stability. We begin with an evaluation to confirm your dog’s suitability for ESA training. Dogs showing aggression, significant anxiety, fear issues, or major medical conditions are not eligible.

What’s the difference between an Emotional Support Dog and a Service Dog?

An Emotional Support Dog (ESA/ESD) provides comfort, companionship, and emotional stability but does not have public access rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A Service Dog, on the other hand, is trained to perform specific tasks related to a disability and is legally permitted in most public spaces.

How long does ESA/ESD training take?

Timelines vary depending on whether we’re training your current dog or placing a pre-trained dog. On average, ESA training programs range from several weeks to a few months, while pre-trained dogs undergo extensive preparation before placement.

Do Emotional Support Dogs require certification?

No federal law requires certification for ESAs/ESDs. However, our dogs are prepared to pass recognized tests such as the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC), AKC Community Canine (CGCA), and AKC Urban CGC (CGCU)—which demonstrates advanced obedience and reliability.

What breeds are best for Emotional Support Dogs?

What tasks do ESA/ESDs perform?

Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not task-trained for disability-related functions. Instead, they provide:
– Comfort and emotional stability
– Calm companionship at home
– Obedience and manners in dog-friendly public spaces
– Engagement cues to support their handler in stressful moments

How do I start the process?

Simply schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team. We’ll discuss your needs, evaluate your current dog (if applicable), and recommend the right training program—or begin sourcing a pre-trained emotional support dog matched to your lifestyle and goals.

👉 Still have questions? Contact Specialty Dog Training™ today to learn more about Emotional Support Dog Training and Placement, or schedule your free consultation to get started.

Emotional Support Dog Training in San Diego, CA