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Training Program
Public Access Training
Core obedience and public-access skills for service dog teams preparing for daily community life.
12 weeks
In-person, weekly sessions
Contact ASDI for current pricing
Program Overview
A structured, trainer-led public access program for established handler–dog teams. Teams progress through six professional modules covering equipment standards, positioning, duration behaviors, built-environment navigation, distraction recovery, and full public access rehearsal. Each module includes a printable ASDI worksheet for session planning, field practice, and progress documentation.
What Teams Will Learn
- Maintain focus in high-distraction public environments
- Navigate doorways, elevators, and narrow aisles safely
- Settle calmly under a table or chair for extended periods
- Recover appropriately from unexpected startling events
Course Materials & Worksheets
Professional ASDI curriculum modules with printable worksheets for session planning, field practice, and trainer review.
Official ASDI MaterialsModule 1
Module 1 — Foundations & Professional Presentation
Establish equipment standards, handler posture, and the calm, unobtrusive presence expected of a working team in public.
Lesson material
- Equipment fit check: flat collar or harness, leash length, and no retractable leashes in training
- Handler positioning: dog on designated side, consistent pace, neutral attention
- Presentation standards: grooming, vest use (optional), and avoiding unnecessary interaction
- Pre-outing checklist: hydration, relief, equipment, and handler readiness
Module 2
Module 2 — Loose-Leash Walking & Positioning
Build reliable loose-leash walking with automatic check-ins and precise positioning in low-distraction settings before adding complexity.
Lesson material
- Loose-leash criteria and reinforcement timing
- Automatic check-ins at doorways and turns
- Speed changes, stops, and pivots without leash tension
- Transition from training space to sidewalk rehearsal
Module 3
Module 3 — Settle, Stay & Duration Work
Train calm duration behaviors under chairs, tables, and waiting areas — a core public access skill for restaurants, clinics, and offices.
Lesson material
- Mat or place cue with duration building
- Settle under table/chair with minimal repositioning
- Ignoring food, movement, and conversational noise at distance
- Release cues and calm transitions back to heel
Module 4
Module 4 — Navigating Built Environments
Practice safe, predictable movement through doorways, elevators, aisles, ramps, and crowded pathways.
Lesson material
- Doorway etiquette: wait, permission, and clear pathing
- Elevator entry, positioning, and exit without crowding
- Narrow aisle navigation and cart awareness
- Stairs, ramps, and surface transitions
Module 5
Module 5 — Distraction Recovery & Resilience
Introduce controlled distractions and teach rapid recovery without escalation, vocalization, or loss of task readiness.
Lesson material
- Controlled distraction hierarchy (visual, auditory, olfactory)
- Startle recovery protocol: pause, redirect, reinforce calm
- Handler breathing and leash mechanics during recovery
- Debrief and adjust training plan after each outing
Module 6
Module 6 — Public Access Rehearsal & Maintenance
Conduct full-length public access rehearsals, document reliability, and build a sustainable maintenance schedule.
Lesson material
- Simulated outing plan with success criteria
- Three-environment proofing rotation (retail, medical, transit-style)
- Reliability scoring and gap analysis
- Monthly maintenance outing schedule
Worksheets are branded ASDI training documents for Public Access Training. Bring completed worksheets to your ASDI-affiliated trainer or workshop facilitator.