Definition & Meaning of "assistance dog"

What is an "assistance dog"?

An assistance dog, also known as a service dog, is a specially trained canine that provides support, aid, and assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs. These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that help their handlers overcome physical, sensory, or emotional limitations and lead more independent lives. Assistance dogs can be trained to assist individuals with visual impairments, hearing impairments, mobility impairments, medical conditions, autism, PTSD, and other disabilities. They may perform tasks such as guiding their handler, alerting to sounds, picking up items, providing balance and stability, alerting to medical emergencies, providing emotional support, and performing other specialized tasks based on the needs of their handlers. Assistance dogs play a vital role in improving the quality of life and enhancing the independence and autonomy of individuals with disabilities.