Service dogs and therapy dogs are fundamentally different in purpose, training, legal protection, and access rights.
Service Dogs
- Purpose: Trained for one handler's disability
- Legal protection: Full ADA, FHA, ACAA rights
- Access: All public places
- Certification: None required
Therapy Dogs
- Purpose: Comfort many people in facilities
- Legal protection: None under ADA
- Access: Only where invited
- Certification: Usually through Pet Partners or similar organizations
Key Differences
- Service dog works for one person; therapy dog works for many
- Service dog has federal access rights; therapy dog does not
- Service dog performs trained tasks; therapy dog provides comfort through presence
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
ESAs are a third category — companionship without trained tasks. Limited FHA housing protections but no ADA public access rights. See: ESA vs Service Dog.
Register Your Service Dog Today
Create a free digital profile with QR-verified credentials for your service dog.
Create Free Profile →