Chapter 1The Quiet Experts.

Defining the Terms.

Robbie and Jane.

Chapter 2 Hallmarks of a Dog Who’s Always Welcome.

ADI’s Minimum Standards for Assistance Dogs in Public.

What an Assistance Dog Is.

What an Assistance Dog Is Not.

Assistance Dog Trainers.

Chapter 3 From Domestication to Behavior Modification to Socialization.

Domestication: We Find the Key.

Behavior Modification: We Start to Open the Window.

Socialization: We Open Wide the Window.

Chapter 4 The Right Dog for the Right Role.

Other Trainers Weigh In.

Choosing Chase.

What Role Will Your Dog Play?

Tess.

Chapter 5 Evaluating the Dog You Have.

Looking at Your Dog Realistically.

Look Before You Leap.

What We Can Learn from Evaluating Therapy Dogs.

Volhard Canine Personality Profile.

Dash and Chase.

Chapter 6 Communicating Across Species.

The Role of Stress.

The Language Barrier Becomes the Language Bridge.

Assistance Dog Trainers Talk Dog.

Speaking Canine in Obedience Class.

Chapter 7 Creating a Managed, Positive-Outcome Socialization Program.

Getting It Right.

What Socialization Is.

What Socialization Isn’t.

The Rule of Seven.

Fear Periods.

Canine Generalization.

The SOAPs.

Early Socialization.

Beginning Socialization at Home.

Advanced Socialization on the Road.

Adult Dog-on-Dog Socialization.

It’s Only Natural.

Chapter 8 Creating a Relationship-Based Behavior and Skills Training Program.

Playing with Tug Toys as a Training Tool.

Um, Should I Take That as a Yes or a No?

The Positive Basics.

Beyond Sit and Stay.

Therapy Dog Handlers Test the Waters (and Find Themselves in the Deep and of the Pool).

Training Tips from the Pros.

Chapter 9 Evaluating Socialization Opportunities.

Puppy Kindergarten Group Classes.

Obedience Training Group Classes.

Off-Leash Dog Parks and Play Centers.

Doggie Daycare.

Therapy Dog Training Classes.

American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Program.

Everyday Life in Small Doses.

Chapter 10 Developing the Deep Relationship.

Canine Emotions: Where It All Begins.

I’ll Know It When I See It.

The Philosophers.

Afterword.

The Truth About Unconditional Canine Love.

Appendix.

Meet the Trainers.

About the Author.

Index.