Adolescent Dogs
Certified Therapy Dog Form
You can sign up via our website and start the process right away. Before you can take any assessments, you’ll need to provide:
Proof of your dog’s 3rd party liability insurance – this must cover therapy work.
A valid enhanced DBS check – to ensure suitability for visiting vulnerable people and children.
Your dog’s vaccination record or vet health certificate – to confirm they are fit to work.
Please note: Adolescent Dogs does not cover any costs for these documents.
Once you make payment, you’ll be added to our membership system and sent your welcome pack within 24 hours.
You will gain access to assessment booking options and optional training resources.
Annual membership is £99 for non academy members and £79 for academy members, which includes:
Assessment options for both temperament and obedience
Official ID card (once passed) and certificates for passing the programme.
Access to exclusive therapy dog resources and guidance
To qualify as an Adolescent Dogs Certified Therapy Dog, you must:
Must be taken in person with a local force-free trainer using our official assessment sheet.
Must be renewed annually.
This is paid directly to your chosen trainer at their rates.
Demonstrates that your dog meets our visiting standards for behaviour and control.
Can be taken online via video submission or in person.
Covers skills such as loose lead walking, calm greetings, polite behaviour around distractions, and gentle treat-taking.
Once you’ve passed both assessments:
You’ll receive your Official Adolescent Dogs Certified Therapy Dog ID card.
You’ll be recognised as part of our network of certified therapy dogs and will be able to purchase one of our Therapy Dog training vests.
You can begin arranging therapy visits to suitable venues (care homes, schools, hospitals, libraries, community events).
Annual renewal keeps your certification active, your ID card valid, and your listing in our network.
Temperament assessments must be repeated yearly to maintain certification.
You must maintain valid insurance and a DBS check at all times.
✅ Note: Therapy dog certification is not a legal requirement in the UK, but professional standards, assessments, and proper documentation help reassure venues that your dog is safe, suitable, and reliable for visiting work. We cannot guarantee that venues will allow your dog to visit.
These companies cover: LV, Many Pets, Pet plan, Tesco, Sainbury's, Everypaws, John lewis and Agria
Member Agreement – Adolescent Dogs Certified Therapy Dog Programme
I accept full responsibility if my dog causes harm or damage to themselves, another person, another animal, or property during my participation in the Adolescent Dogs Certified Therapy Dog Programme.
I understand that this programme is for therapy dog training and certification and is not associated with Pets As Therapy, Therapy Dogs Nationwide, or any other organisation. Certification through Adolescent Dogs does not guarantee that all venues will accept therapy dog visits, and permission to visit is always at the discretion of the organisation or service.
I agree to use force-free, positive reinforcement training methods only and will not use corrective or aversive equipment such as slip collars/leads, check chains, half-check collars, prong collars, e-collars, rattle bottles, or similar devices. I will not use aversive handling techniques, including but not limited to physical corrections, pinning, pinching, kicking, or using physical force. I understand that my membership will be revoked immediately if I use aversive tools or methods.
I agree to temporarily remove my dog from therapy visits or training if they display concerning behaviour, including but not limited to reactivity, fearful responses, aggression, or if they are injured or involved in a dog attack. I understand that a new temperament assessment will be required before resuming visits.
This agreement must be signed by a responsible adult (aged 16 or over) who will take full responsibility for the dog’s behaviour and welfare in public at all times.
