The 3 Must-Have Traits of a Therapy Dog Team

Could my dog be a therapy dog?

It’s one of the questions I hear most often.

Whether whispered at a community event or shouted joyfully from across the dog park, it always comes from a place of hope and curiosity. And while every dog is wonderful, not every dog (or handler!) is ready to become part of a certified therapy dog team. But don’t worry—this post is here to shed some light on what really matters.

Let’s explore the three essential traits of a strong therapy dog team.

🐾 TEMPERAMENT

Gentle. Steady. Social.

The best therapy dogs have a calm, friendly nature. They’re not just tolerant—they genuinely enjoy being around people. From toddlers to seniors, loud noises to awkward hugs, therapy dogs remain relaxed, responsive, and even-keeled.

Does your dog greet new people with curiosity and ease? Can they stay calm in new or unpredictable situations? That’s the kind of temperament that’s ideal.

🐾 OBEDIENCE

Reliable, responsive, and well-mannered.

A therapy dog doesn’t need to perform tricks (although that’s a bonus!)—but they do need to follow basic commands without hesitation. They walk politely on a leash, resist distractions, and respond to your cues with trust and clarity.

Training matters—but it’s not about perfection. It’s about trust and communication between dog and handler, especially in busy environments like hospitals, schools, and community centers.

🐾 BOND

Mutual trust and clear communication.

At the heart of every great therapy team is a deep connection. You and your dog should move together naturally—reading each other’s cues, supporting each other’s energy, and working as a unified team. And you need to be tuned in to when your dog’s had enough—they get tired, just like we do.

Therapy dog work is about presence, not performance. It’s about walking in step, emotionally and energetically.

If you're exploring whether your dog might be a good fit, start here:

🐾 Watch how your dog responds to new environments—do they stay calm, curious, and connected to you?

🐾 Practice together in social settings like parks, outdoor cafes, or pet-friendly stores.

🐾 Work on basic obedience daily at home—consistency builds trust and confidence.

🐾 Check in on your communication: are you both listening to each other, even without words?

🐾 Strengthen your bond through quality time, shared routines, and lots of praise.

If it feels like a good fit, amazing. The world needs more paws of love and calm.

Want to see what it looks like in action or follow along for tips, behind-the-scenes moments, and more?

Follow us on Instagram @tgfdogs 🐾

We’d love to have you in the pack.