Puppy Raising
Canines for Change is currently seeking dedicated puppy raisers! As a puppy raiser, you provide an invaluable service to our organization and the clients we serve. Your time, care, and commitment directly impact our ability to raise healthy, confident, and well-socialized dogs for families and individuals who need them most.
Without puppy raisers, our dogs would be raised in kennels — and research shows that kennel environments can negatively affect a dog’s ability to bond and thrive in a working role. By raising a puppy in a loving home, you’re helping lay the foundation for their future success as a service or facility dog.
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What You’ll Receive
Puppies are typically placed with raiser families at around 8 weeks of age. As a puppy raiser, you’ll receive:
All basic supplies (crate, vest, leash, collar, etc.)
Veterinary care, including immunizations, wellness visits, flea/heartworm prevention
Weekly Puppy Training Classes
Ongoing support and guidance from the Canines for Change team
Note: Unexpected vet costs (such as illness or injury) may be reimbursed on a case-by-case basis.
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Your Role as a Puppy Raiser
Raising a service dog puppy is a big commitment — and an incredibly rewarding one.
In addition to daily care, you’ll be expected to:
Attend weekly puppy training classes
Participate in regular socialization outings (stores, events, restaurants, etc.)
Encourage positive behaviors in a variety of real-world environments
Stay in regular contact with the training team
Canines for Change is committed to supporting our puppy raisers every step of the way.
Interested in Getting Involved?
We’d love to talk with you about becoming a puppy raiser.
FAQs
How long will I have the puppy?
Most puppy raisers care for their dog until they are 5 to 6 months old, depending on maturity, progress, and readiness for advanced training.
Do I need dog training experience?
Not at all! We’ll train you. Weekly classes will help you build the skills you need — and our team is always here for questions and support.
What does Canines for Change provide?
We provide veterinary care, basic supplies (crate, leash, vest, etc.), and weekly training. You provide love, consistency, and socialization.
Can I raise a puppy if I work full-time?
Yes, depending on your schedule and flexibility. The puppy will need potty breaks, enrichment, and social time throughout the day, so this works best if you have help at home or a flexible routine.
Can I raise a puppy if I have other pets or children?
Yes! Many of our most successful puppy raisers have other pets or children in the home. We’ll help you determine if it’s a good fit.
Can I travel or go on vacation while raising a puppy?
We ask puppy raisers to be available consistently during the puppy’s development period. If you need time away, we can work with you to arrange a temporary placement, but consistency is key for success.