Puppy Raiser Program

Click here to download an application

The majority of Denver Dog Work's service dogs are raised in volunteer homes from approximately eight weeks of age to 12 months of age.  We are looking for young families, couples without children at home or single individuals who are able to devote the time, energy and love necessary to successfully socialize a puppy.

We require volunteer puppy raisers to undertake the job of socialization, house training and basic obedience training for Denver dog Work's future service dogs.   Puppies start obedience training classes with Denver Dog Works instructors very early to begin introducing basic obedience commands, set socialization goals, and connect as a group to solve and prevent common puppy problems. Puppy raisers must be able to commit to weekly classes which run for approximately 6 weeks at a time. A series of three six week sessions complete the puppy's basic training before they leave the puppy raiser's home for 4-6 months of the advanced training program at our training center with our trainers. Puppy class fees are generously offered free of charge to all puppy raisers by Denver Dog Works.

Puppy raisers are also required to attend several "social outings" held in various public environments with Denver Dog Works instructors.  For example, the instructors may schedule outings to shopping malls, parks, pet stores, or restaurants. 

Are You Ready To Become A Puppy Raiser?
But before you think puppy raising is for you, there are some important questions to consider. You should answer yes to all of the following questions.  If you "pass the test" you may make a valuable puppy raiser!

• Are you willing to make a 12- 18 month commitment to the puppy?

• Are you familiar with the work involved in successfully raising a puppy?

• Are you patient and consistent with animals?

• Will you be devoted to the project?

• Are you home during the day? (the puppy cannot be crated more than 4hours at a time and will need a relief/exercise part way through the day)

• Are you willing to follow the directions given to you by Denver Dog Works trainers?

• Are you committed to the puppy being a part of your family?

Will you be able to take the puppy into public environments (i.e. malls, grocery stores, movies, restaurants, parks, sports events, etc.) at least three times per week?  

You will need to devote time each day to practice obedience and make time for social outings in public to lead to the successful training and socialization of a service dog. It is crucial that this all-important training and socialization be carried out in a positive and fun manner.  Dog training is not difficult, but requires patience, consistency and repetition. Puppies are like little sponges that love to learn new things and are happiest when given a task to do or a new skill to learn. Remember that often puppies that are bored will become destructive and will engaging in activities like chewing inappropriate objects or dig for recreation. Success comes with commitment, so the training of an Denver Dog Works puppy must somehow fit in between your work, school, TV shows, and other weekly activities.

What are you supplied with when you raise a puppy for Denver Dog Works?

The puppy raiser must supply the following items:

• Pet Bed

• Large or Extra Large Dog Crate 

• Treats

• Any additional toys

• A leash as the puppy grows

• A safe and loving home

• Shelter

• Water

When Your Puppy Leaves
At approximately 12-18 months of age, puppies move from the puppy raisers home to the Denver Dog Works Training Center to begin advanced training This intensive 4-6 months of advanced training will prepare them for life as Service Dogs. It can be heart-wrenching to part with the puppy you raised.  While puppy raisers acknowledge this is an emotional time, they take comfort in knowing that they will be helping to make a real difference in the life of a child with autism and special needs.