How to Start Training Your Emotional Support Dog

Is Your Dog Ready to Be an Emotional Support Animal? Discover the Training That Makes the Difference

May 11, 2025

Emotional support animals (ESAs) can be life-changing companions, offering comfort and stability during times of stress, anxiety, or depression. But while any dog can offer love, not every dog is naturally equipped to serve as an ESA—at least not without proper training.

So what exactly does emotional support dog training involve? Let’s dive into how it works, why it’s crucial, and how you can get started today.

What Is Emotional Support Dog Training?

Unlike service dogs, emotional support animals are not required by law to perform specific tasks. However, they must still be well-behaved, responsive, and calm in various environments. Emotional support dog training focuses on:

Basic obedience (sit, stay, come)
Socialization with people and other animals
Desensitization to noises, crowds, and unfamiliar surroundings
Controlled behavior in public settings (restaurants, apartments, airports)
Bonding with their handler to detect emotional changes

This specialized training builds your dog’s confidence and reliability, creating a stronger, more intuitive bond between you and your ESA.

Why Is Training Important for Emotional Support Dogs?

Training your emotional support dog isn’t just a courtesy—it’s essential for:

Ensuring the animal is safe and manageable in public or crowded spaces
Reducing stress or anxiety triggers in the dog (and by extension, the owner)
Helping your dog recognize your emotional states and respond appropriately
Meeting landlord or airline behavioral expectations

Even if your dog has a gentle nature, structured training ensures they stay calm and supportive during challenging situations.

How to Start Training Your Emotional Support Dog

🐾 Start with basic obedience. Every ESA should master commands like sit, stay, heel, and recall.
🐶 Enroll in a positive reinforcement training course—preferably one with ESA experience.
🏠 Practice daily routines at home, including quiet time, exposure to distractions, and bonding exercises.
🌎 Gradually introduce your dog to new environments (parks, stores, sidewalks) to build confidence.
📋 Consider working with a certified dog trainer or behaviorist who specializes in ESA development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do emotional support dogs need certification?

A: No official certification is required under U.S. law. However, you must have a letter from a licensed mental health professional prescribing the ESA for emotional or psychological benefit.

Q: How long does ESA training take?

A: It varies by dog and owner consistency. Basic training may take 6–12 weeks, but ongoing reinforcement is key to success.

Q: Can I train my dog to be an ESA myself?

A: Yes! Many owners successfully train their emotional support dogs with patience, consistency, and guidance from professional resources.

Q: What's the difference between an ESA and a service dog?

A: Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for a disability and are protected under the ADA. ESAs provide emotional support and are protected under housing laws but not public access laws.

Final Thoughts

Training your dog to become an emotional support animal is one of the most rewarding journeys you can take together. With patience, commitment, and the right approach, your furry friend can become a reliable emotional companion who helps you navigate life’s ups and downs with a little more peace and a lot more love.

✨ Helpful Tip: Keep a journal of your dog’s training progress and behavior. Not only does this help track improvements, but it may also support your case when requesting housing accommodations.

Ready to begin emotional support dog training? Your journey starts with one paw in front of the other—start today, and build a better bond with your loyal companion.