Kids are typically curious by nature, especially when they see a dog out in public. However, some dogs may be performing life-saving tasks and shouldn’t be approached or distracted; while others may welcome interactions. 

AKC Government Relations has created a new one-page resource to help teach kids the differences between service, emotional support, and therapy dogs. Educating about the key differences of those dogs, including differentiating those that should be petted or not, plays a vital role in assuring proper understanding and interaction with assistance dogs in a community setting. 

To view, download, or print this one-pager, please click here. This document, as well as two other related one-pagers (one in English, one in Spanish) can be found on the AKC GR’s Service Dog Key Issue page and in the GR Toolbox (www.akcgr.org) under Advocacy Assistance/ Public Outreach. 

This document is for informational purposes only and should not be used to determine status of a dog. Should you have questions regarding the legal requirements or the status of your dog, call the ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (voice) or 800-514-0383 (TTY) or the US Department of Housing & Urban Development at 202-708-1112 (voice) or 202-708-1455 (TTY).