The foundation of a strong service dog team starts long before training — it starts with finding the right dog. In this episode, Nathalie and Dakota talk about what makes a good service dog prospect, the common misconceptions people have when choosing a dog, and how to set yourself up for success from the very beginning.

They cover temperament testing, evaluating puppies vs. adult dogs, what to look for in breeders or rescues, and how to avoid common mistakes many new handlers make. Whether you’re just starting your journey or supporting someone who is, this episode gives you the tools to make informed, thoughtful choices.