Training a Service Dog: The Frustrations and Rewards of Teaching a Special Command

Title: Service Dog Learns Special Command to Assist Quadriplegic Owner

Megan Gentry and her husband Tyson embarked on a challenging yet rewarding journey to train their Doberman pinscher puppy, Bailey, as a service dog to assist Tyson, a C-4 quadriplegic. Despite facing obstacles such as Tyson’s allergies to certain breeds and the lack of suitable service dog trainers, the couple took on the task themselves.

The training focused on teaching Bailey to perform a crucial task of pushing Tyson up in his wheelchair if he leaned too far forward. Through consistent and patient efforts, Gentry documented Bailey’s progression in an Instagram video, showcasing the dedication and hard work required to train a service dog.

With the guidance of trainer Scot Rucker, Gentry utilized Bailey’s mealtimes for training sessions, using food incentives to reinforce commands. Despite moments of frustration and doubt, Gentry persevered, recognizing the immense help Bailey could provide to Tyson in his daily life.

Bailey mastered various commands to assist Tyson, including picking up items, closing doors, hitting handicapped buttons, and even differentiating who to bring items to when needed. Tyson’s favorite command, “bring,” allows Bailey to retrieve dropped items and place them on his lap, providing him with increased independence.

Gentry emphasized the rewarding yet challenging nature of dog training, highlighting the importance of patience and consistency in the process. The impact of Bailey’s training has not only brought relief to Gentry but also enhanced Tyson’s independence and quality of life.

The story of Megan Gentry and Bailey serves as a testament to the incredible bond between a service dog and its owner, showcasing the dedication and perseverance required to train a dog to assist individuals with disabilities.