Although some organizations prefer to use specific breeds to train service dogs for veterans with PTSD, we are not currently aware of any evidence that specifically states whether certain types of breeds perform better as service dogs. With the right training and temperament, any dog breed is capable of becoming a service dog.

Canines Providing Assistance to Wounded Warriors (C-PAWW) is a health research initiative for veterans aimed at advancing the standards of care for our military veterans through the use of interdisciplinary research, education and evidence-based and restorative interventions. While we support the use of dogs to help promote the health and well-being for veterans, we do not train or provide dogs for veterans.

While C-PAWW supports the use of service dogs for veterans, we do not conduct webinars specifically about how service dogs may help veterans, how to apply to an ADI organization, or information on owner training. However, we are happy to help folks find resources to meet their needs in the community.

We cannot conclude or state that dogs used for PTSD can be considered essential to the well-being of veterans. However, we are hopeful that service dogs – including psychiatric service dogs – can be recognized as a significant and positive influence on the health and well-being of veterans. It is our goal that with enough empirical evidence psychiatric service dogs will become a reimbursable medical expense. However, more evidence is needed to change public policy.

We are not aware of any studies that examined the impact of an active duty military member having a dog in combat to reduce PTSD symptoms. However, this is an interesting question that may be explored in the future.

Please contact at us via email at cpaww@health.fau.edu. We are always happy to connect with organizations that support veterans and develop partnerships in the community.