We all know that dogs are man’s best friend. But what you may not know is different types of dogs exist to help serve individuals with disabilities. There are two titles that dogs may hold that could be of importance to you. A service dog and an emotional support dog.

Not sure how to tell the difference between a service dog and vs emotional support dog?

Here’s everything you need to know about the differences between service and emotional support dogs.

From Training to Temperament: How Service Dogs and Emotional Support Dogs Differ

When it comes to assistance dogs, there are two main types: service dogs and emotional support dogs. While both provide important support to their owners, there are some key differences between the two.

Service Dogs: What They Can Do

Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that assist their handlers who may have disabilities. Such as blindness, low vision, hearing loss, seizures, and mobility impairments.

Emotional Support Dogs: How They Help Their Owners

Emotional support dogs provide companionship and emotional support. They do not have specific training to perform a task. Emotional support dogs can be a valuable part of treatment for some conditions, such as anxiety or depression.

Difference in Training

Another key difference between a service dog and vs emotional support dog is training. Service dogs undergo a more rigorous process than emotional support dogs. Service dogs must be trained to perform tasks that assist their owner with a disability.

These tasks can include things like picking up dropped items, opening doors, providing balance support, and alerting their owner to a sound.

ESDs are not required to have any specific training, and their handlers do not have to be disabled. The only requirement for an ESD is a letter from a mental health professional. Saying that the animal provides emotional support that is medically necessary.

Difference in Temperament

Service dogs are specifically trained to perform certain tasks. They are typically calmer and more focused than emotional support dogs. Service dogs typically have a more serious demeanor. They are less likely to be friendly with strangers, have a look here at where to apply for a service dog.

Emotional support dogs may be more relaxed and social. Finally, service dogs are typically not allowed to live in homes with their owners, while emotional support dogs may be.

Difference in Rights

Service Dogs have more public access rights than Emotional Support Dogs (ESDs) under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). For example, a service dog may accompany its handler in all public places, including businesses, government buildings, and public transit, while an ESD may be denied access.

Service dogs are also allowed to fly in the cabin of an airplane with their handlers, while ESDs are not. Service dogs must be individually trained to perform a task or tasks that mitigate their handler’s disability.

Service Dog vs Emotional Support Dog: Which One Do You Need?

Service dogs undergo extensive training to help their humans with specific tasks, while emotional support dogs provide companionship and alleviation of symptoms associated with mental health conditions. Although both types of dogs can provide valuable support, it’s important to know the difference between A service dog vs emotional support dog before making a decision about which one is right for you.

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