A study published in Military Psychology explored the therapeutic effects of training service dogs for others on military veterans diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Conducted as a pilot randomized controlled trial, the research aimed to assess feasibility and symptom changes among service members in outpatient care.
Twenty-nine volunteers were randomly assigned to either a Service Dog Training Program (SDTP) group or a waitlist control. The SDTP participants completed six structured one-hour sessions over two weeks, during which they trained service dogs to assist fellow veterans. The outcomes were evaluated using standard mental health symptom questionnaires, focusing on PTSD, stress, insomnia, depression, and anxiety.
Results showed moderate symptom reductions, particularly in stress, hypervigilance, and intrusive thoughts. Notably, within the SDTP group, the effect size for stress reduction was strong (d = −1.31), and for intrusive thoughts (d = −0.78). Between-group comparisons also showed moderate improvements in PTSD symptoms.
Qualitative feedback indicated that while the program was sometimes emotionally challenging, participants reported benefits across multiple areas of personal and social functioning. The experience of helping train dogs for others may have contributed to a sense of purpose and emotional relief.
The study underscores the potential of short-term, adjunctive dog training programs in PTSD treatment frameworks. Researchers recommend future trials to refine dosage and session duration to optimize outcomes.
Source: Abraham, P., Kazman, J. B., Bonner, J. A., Olmert, M., Yount, R. A., & Deuster, P. (2021). “Effects of Training Service Dogs on Service Members with PTSD: A Pilot-Feasibility Randomized Study with Mixed Methods.” Military Psychology, 34, 187–196.
