Therapy Dogs vs. Service Dogs — What’s the Difference?

Are therapy dogs service animals?

No — therapy dogs are not service animals. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a service animal is trained to perform a specific task for a person with a disability, such as guiding someone who is blind or alerting someone with seizures. Therapy dogs don’t do specific tasks for one person — they provide comfort, encouragement, and emotional support to many people in group settings.

Are therapy dogs considered service dogs?

No. Even though therapy dogs go through training, they are not considered service dogs under the law. This means they don’t have the same public access rights.

Are therapy dogs allowed everywhere?

Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs can’t go everywhere their handler goes. You won’t find them in restaurants, grocery stores, or on airplanes unless they’re specifically invited. Instead, they’re typically allowed in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, and other settings where they’ve been given permission.

Are therapy dogs trained?

Yes! A good therapy dog must be calm, gentle, obedient, and comfortable in busy, sometimes stressful environments. They need to pass temperament tests and obedience training to make sure they’re safe around children, teens, and adults. While their training is different (and less intense) than that of service dogs, it’s still very important.

Are therapy dogs expensive?

The cost depends on the program. Some therapy dogs are trained by professional organizations, which can be pricey, while others are trained by their handlers through approved courses. Families and schools that host therapy dogs usually cover the costs of care, food, and ongoing training.

The takeaway

Therapy dogs aren’t service dogs, but they are powerful helpers in their own way. They don’t guide, retrieve, or alert — instead, they bring joy, calm, and connection to classrooms, hospitals, and communities.