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K9s For Warriors
PICKING A PUP
Behind every life-changing service dog is the careful process of choosing the right pup, a decision that shapes both the dog’s future and the veteran’s journey.
MORE THAN BREED
At K9s For Warriors, the journey usually begins in shelters. There’s no single breed that makes the perfect service dog. Instead, trainers focus on finding dogs with the right qualities and temperament to serve a veteran.
“Breed definitely plays a role, but there isn’t one right answer. The pairing process is special.”
The team gets background on each warrior and carefully considers which trained dogs will be the best fit.
“At the end of the day, I know what I have to do. There are warriors in need, and I’ll find the dogs that meet our requirements and bring them back.”
— Jennifer Miller, Intake Specialist & Trainer
Traits That Matter Most for Warriors
Not every shelter dog is suited for service work. Trainers look for dogs that are:
- Calm and steady – not running around or overly hyperactive.
- Adaptable – able to settle after leaving a stressful shelter environment.
- Resilient – capable of learning and building trust with handlers.
The process involves testing and observation to ensure the dog can succeed in training and eventually bond with a warrior.
Balancing Heart and Mission
Many shelters are overcrowded, and it can be heartbreaking for trainers who wish they could rescue every animal.
The mission keeps the team focused. The ultimate goal is to select only the dogs that meet K9s For Warriors’ program standards—because veterans are waiting for partners they can rely on every day.
At the end of the process, it’s about finding the dogs who will thrive in their role and truly serve the veterans who need them.
Show Your Support
If you’re looking to stand behind our veterans and the brave dogs that support them, check out our K9s For Warriors merch in the Rewards store.
Next Up
Where Dogs Learn to Serve and Warriors Learn to Heal