For the purpose of successfully passing a public access standard test it is necessary for your dog to be able to complete the following behaviours at test standard WITHOUT the use of treats, leash corrections or training aids.
(Please note that while the animal is learning these behaviours rewards will be required)
An appropriate level of looseness is required in the leash/harness for all on-leash behaviours.
The dog is required to stay close to handler at heel maintaining a slack J shaped leash. There should be no continuous or repeated straining at the leash or harness or excessive pulling or wandering. (Retractable leashes are not suitable unless for specific disability requirement).
During all behaviours the dog remains comfortable and confident in its working position.
Dog holds – Sit, Down, Stay on Sd/cue for 30 seconds.
Dog comes on Sd/cue from distance of 6 feet or greater.
Dog walks past and leaves food item on ground.
Dog is able to ignore, greet or get out of way of stranger on Sd/cue
Dog does not exhibit any inappropriate behaviour when touched by a stranger.
Dog looks at handler on Sd.
Dog is able to work despite distractions encountered in normal working environment, including but not limited to loud noises, sirens, crowds, mounted police.
Dog enters and exits any form of transportation in a safe manner.
Dog is able to ride in any form of transportation in a controlled manner.
Dog must enter building in controlled manner.
Dog must walk up/down stairs at heel of handler.
Dog must be trained to use escalators safely.
Dog navigates store without knocking shelves or interacting with merchandise.
Dog does not interact with other people unless instructed to do so
Dog does not lick or closely sniff food or other store items.
Dog maintains good working position while the handler uses shopping cart.
Dog does not beg or attempt to eat or closely sniff at any food on floor or tables
Dog is positioned to cause least obstruction to flow of business and maintain position.
Dog is not on table, chair or bench but is always either on the floor or under table.
Handler does not feed or water their dog from the table.
Dog should be able to load into an elevator and travel both up and down remaining confident in either sit or standing position.
Dog should maintain working position and not cause the handler to fall or stumble.
Dog should be able to maintain a working mode while in the presence of other dogs.
Dog does not cause disturbance in the restroom.
Dog must not display any inappropriate behaviours listed below:
Growling or inappropriate excessive barking
Nipping or biting
Showing teeth
Lunging at other people or dogs
Being out of handler’s control
Inappropriately eliminating (urination/defication)
International Association of Assistance Dog Partners Minimum Training Standards for Public Access
