Eligibility
ELIGIBILITY
Facility dogs are available to professionals who work in environments that serve children with autism and related disabilities. This includes:
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Teachers
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School principals
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Occupational, speech, physical, and behavioral therapists
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Psychologists, social workers, and other allied professionals
The handler must be the professional who will be working with the dog and actively integrating the dog into their daily interactions with clients or students.
Facility Dogs
Our Facility Dogs live and work alongside professionals—such as teachers, therapists, or school administrators—who serve children with autism and related disabilities. These highly trained dogs help children meet social, emotional, behavioral, and sensory goals in therapy sessions, classrooms, and structured programs.

Two Ways to Get a Facility Dog
TWO WAYS - FACILITY DOG
Good Dog! offers two distinct pathways for professionals to receive a facility dog:
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1. Full-Service Placement
We raise, train, and match a professionally trained dog to meet the needs of your facility. You’ll attend our required 5-day Team Training in Southern California before bringing the dog home.
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2. Train Your Own Certified Good Dog!
Some professionals may prefer a more hands-on experience and choose to train their own facility dog under our expert guidance. If you’re interested in the TYO path, we’ll support you every step of the way—from selecting your puppy to certification.
Cost of a Facility Dog
We’re committed to making these powerful working dogs accessible. The cost depends on which path you choose:
COST OF A FACILITY DOG
Program | Service Fee | Fundraising Goal |
|---|
We offer fee-for-service and fundraising options for both tracks. Fundraising is never required, but we offer individualized support for professionals who wish to pursue it.
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Note: Travel, lodging, and food expenses for the 5-day Team Training (Full-Service only) are not included in the program cost.

HOW TO GET
STARTED
Before you apply, we strongly encourage you to:
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Attend a Service Dog Infurmation Hour
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Schedule a 1:1 chat with our team
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Visit the Help Me Decide page to explore which path is right for you
When you're ready, submit an application and we’ll guide you through the next steps—whether you're matched with a professionally trained facility dog or choose to train your own.
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Learn more about the Full-Service Application Process
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Explore the Train Your Own Pathway
APPLY FOR A FACILITY DOG