Our mission & standards
A growing organisation built on a sustainable, client-supported model — and rigorous international standards.
Structured pathways, built around real lives
As a growing organisation, Assistance Dogs South Africa operates on a sustainable, client-supported model. Our practices are aligned with rigorous international standards.
Our structured training pathways are designed to suit different lifestyles, levels of involvement, and support needs — while ensuring every successful team qualifies as a reliable, task-trained assistance dog.
Every qualified assistance dog must reliably perform at least three disability-mitigating tasks specific to their handler's needs other than our Guide dog mobility program.
We believe assistance dogs should not only improve independence, but also provide emotional confidence, safety, and meaningful companionship.
The standards behind every trained team
Ethical & welfare-focused
Every training decision keeps the dog's wellbeing at the centre, alongside the handler's needs.
Positive reinforcement
All training methods are reward-based, building trust and confidence in every dog.
Long-term support
Our relationship with clients continues well beyond placement day.
Accessible & inclusive
Committed to accessibility and inclusion, with community-focused growth across South Africa.
See the dogs we train, and the paths to get there
Explore the different assistance dog categories, or compare our three training programs to find the right fit.