Service Dog Information and Etiquette

The general classification of Service Dogs includes:
Guide (or Seeing-Eye) Dogs that guide someone who is blind or has
low vision safely from one place to another; and
Assistance Dogs that fulfil a variety of roles for people with one or
more of a wide range of physical or psychiatric conditions — many of
which are invisible to an outside observer. Some examples are:

Hearing Dogs;
Mobility Support Dogs;
Diabetic Alert and Seizure Response Dogs; and
Psychiatric Support Dogs.

All Service Dogs have been specially bred, highly trained, and are legally
accredited to carry out these important tasks.
Guide Dogs are recognisable by a special harness worn by the dog that has a
rigid handle for their owner to hold. Assistance Dogs can often be identified by
a vest or jacket worn by the dog but this is not compulsory in many places, and
some handlers choose not to show obvious signs that the dog is actively
working.
In Japan, under the terms of the Act on Assistance Dogs for Physically
Disabled Persons (2002),
people with disabilities are allowed to be accompanied by their Guide or
Assistance Dog in all places where the public is permitted to go. For this
privilege, the dog must carry a label that identifies it as a Service Dog.
There is a certain etiquette and several guidelines that people should follow
when in the presence of a guide or Assistance dog and its handler. People are
encouraged to observe these guidelines out of respect for the role of the dog,
and the safety of the team.

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Service Dog Guidelines

Please do not touch, speak to, or otherwise distract a working Service Dog.
Remember that for Guide Dogs in particular, the dog is responsible for the
safety of its handler. Allow the dog to concentrate on the job at hand.
Speak to the person, not the dog! When engaging with a Service dog
handler, please allow the handler time to settle the dog before they can
turn their full attention to you. Your patience will be appreciated!
Never touch a working dog without first receiving permission from the
handler. Many handlers will be happy for you to engage with the dog at an
appropriate time but do not be offended if they decline your request.
Remember that a Service Dog is on duty even when they are sitting or lying
down.
Please donʼt feed a Service Dog. Diet and feeding times are strictly
controlled to maintain good health and reliable toileting routines. Also, food
is used as a training tool and for reinforcement of good behaviour. Only the
handler should offer food to the dog.
Even if you are trying to be helpful, do not try to give instructions to the
dog and NEVER call the dog by name. The Service Dog should receive
direction from the handler only.
If the handler looks like they need help, offer your assistance and be guided
by their response. Under no circumstances should you try to lead the dog
by grabbing the harness or leash. This will confuse the dog and disorient
the handler.
When walking with a Guide or Assistance Dog team, you should not walk on
the dog’s left side, as it may become distracted or confused. Ask the
handler where you should walk. Depending on the situation, they may ask
you to walk ahead of them on their right side, or behind them by their right
shoulder.
If you believe a Service Dog team is in danger, voice your concern in a
calm manner. Do not push, pull or grab the dog or the handler.