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Service Dog Etiquette

Guidelines for respectful interactions with service dogs and their handlers

General Guidelines

Service dogs are working animals performing critical tasks for their handlers. When you encounter a service dog team in public, following proper etiquette helps ensure the dog can do its job effectively and safely.

Do's and Don'ts

DO:

  • Maintain a respectful distance
  • Ask permission before approaching
  • Keep your pet away from service dogs
  • Be patient if the team needs extra time
  • Speak to the handler, not the dog
  • Respect "Do Not Pet" vests or signs
  • Allow service dogs access where permitted

DON'T:

  • Pet, talk to, or distract the dog
  • Feed the service dog
  • Make kissing or whistling sounds
  • Stare at or photograph without permission
  • Ask intrusive questions about disabilities
  • Separate the dog from its handler
  • Assume you know the handler's disability

Why These Guidelines Matter

Service dogs are trained to focus on their handlers and respond to specific needs. Any distraction can:

  • Prevent the dog from detecting important medical alerts
  • Interfere with the dog's ability to provide mobility assistance
  • Create safety hazards for both the handler and the dog
  • Break the dog's concentration and training

For Business Owners

Under the ADA, businesses must allow service dogs to accompany their handlers in all areas where the public is allowed. When a service dog team enters your establishment:

  • You may ask only two questions: (1) Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? (2) What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
  • You cannot ask about the person's disability
  • You cannot require documentation or certification
  • You cannot require the dog to demonstrate its task
  • You can ask the handler to remove the dog only if it is out of control or not housebroken

Teaching Children

Help children understand service dog etiquette by explaining:

  • Service dogs are working and need to focus
  • We don't pet or talk to working dogs
  • The dog is helping someone stay safe and healthy
  • We can admire the dog from a distance
  • If we want to learn more, we can politely ask the handler

If You See a Fake Service Dog

Legitimate service dogs are typically well-trained and behave appropriately in public. Signs of a fake service dog may include:

  • Excessive barking, whining, or growling
  • Pulling on the leash or being out of control
  • Jumping on people or furniture
  • Sniffing merchandise or food
  • Showing aggression toward people or other animals
  • Eliminating indoors

If you witness service dog fraud, you can report it to local authorities in states where misrepresentation is illegal.

Get Involved
Service Dog Etiquette - No Fake SD