Training an assistance dog takes time, structure and the right methods. This category covers the full training process – from temperament assessment to task training and placement – with a focus on what this looks like in an Indian context, where the infrastructure and expertise are still being built.
Positive reinforcement is the foundation of modern humane dog training. HeartDogs explains the science, the mechanics and why it produces better results for assistance dogs.
What Is Positive Reinforcement Training? How It Works and Why It Matters Read More »
Force-free training relies on rewards, not punishment. HeartDogs explains what it means, what the evidence shows, and why it’s non-negotiable for assistance dog work.
What Is Force-Free Dog Training? And Why It Matters Read More »
HeartDogs calls its foster-trainers Heroes – and for good reason. Here is what the role actually involves, how it was formalised for India, and why it matters.
What Does “Foster-Trainer” Mean? Meet the Heroes Behind HeartDogs Read More »
Indies are known for their resilience. HeartDogs explains the genetic health profile, common issues in rescued dogs, lifespan, diet and what it means for working dogs.
Indie Dog Health and Lifespan – What Guardians Should Know Read More »
An assistance dog works for around eight to ten years. HeartDogs explains what happens to the person when the dog gets sick, retires or dies – and how good programmes plan for it.
When an Assistance Dog Gets Sick, Retires or Dies. Read More »
: Assistance dog training is skilled work. HeartDogs explains why women in rural India – with no formal background – are exactly the right people for it.
Who Are HeartDogs Foster-Trainers? Read More »
India has tens of millions of people who could benefit from assistance dogs. HeartDogs looks at whether a credible, scalable programme is actually possible here.
Can assistance dog programmes work at scale in India? Read More »
A friendly dog at home is not the same as a trained assistance dog. HeartDogs explains what actually separates the two – and why it matters in India.
What’s the difference between a well-behaved pet and a trained assistance dog? Read More »
Dogs in hospitals sounds unusual in India. HeartDogs looks at what the evidence says about hygiene, infection risk and how responsible programmes manage it.
Are assistance and therapy dogs hygienic enough for home and hospitals? Read More »
Labradors dominate assistance dog programmes globally. HeartDogs explains why Indies, India’s native landrace dogs, are a better fit for assistance work in India.
Why Train Indies as Assistance Dogs? Why Not Labradors or Golden Retrievers? Read More »
