Need A Service Dog

Your Complete Guide to Service Dogs in the United States


Need A Service Dog is a free, U.S.-focused information and directory platform created to help people with disabilities, veterans, caregivers, and families understand, find, and apply for a legitimate service dog under U.S. law. Whether you are just starting to explore your options or are ready to apply, this guide is here to help you take the next step.

What you will find here…

  • Clear, plain-language explanations of what service dogs are and what they can do.
  • A breakdown of the types of service dogs available in the United States.
  • Information organised by disability type so you can find what is relevant to you.
  • A directory of service dog providers across the country.
  • Guidance on U.S. laws that protect you and your service dog.
  • Answers to common questions about cost, training, and eligibility.

Important ADA Fact

Service Dogs Don’t Need Registration

A service dog does not need to be registered, certified, or listed in a database to be recognized under federal law. What matters is that the dog is individually trained to perform tasks related to a person’s disability.

What is a Service Dog?

A service dog is a individually trained to perform specific tasks that directly help a person with a disability. The dog’s work must be directly related to the person’s disability.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service dogs are legally recognized and given broad public access rights. This means they can accompany their handler in most public places, including restaurants, stores, hospitals, hotels, and transportation.

Woman with guide dog and walking stick enjoying a stroll in a lush green park.

What service dogs can do?

Guiding a person who is blind or has low vision around obstacles.
Alerting a person who is deaf or hard of hearing to important sounds.
Pulling a wheelchair or opening doors for someone with a mobility impairment.
Detecting and alerting to changes in blood sugar levels for a person with diabetes.
Interrupting self-harm behaviours or panic attacks.
Reminding a person to take medication.
Providing balance and stability support when walking.
Retrieving dropped items or emergency phones.