Therapy Dog Training | Paws for Purpose

Therapy Dogs change lives — one visit, one wagging tail, one smile at a time. Discover how these special companions spread happiness across our community.

What is a Therapy Dog?

A Therapy Dog is a very special kind of companion. Unlike service dogs, which are trained to assist individuals with specific disabilities, Therapy Dogs work alongside their owners to bring comfort, companionship and emotional support wherever they go.

Where Do Therapy Dogs Visit?

Typically, a Therapy Dog is owned and handled by their volunteer owner, who generously gives their time to share the joy and calm their dog can bring. Therapy Dog teams visit a variety of environments, including:

Aged care homes
Schools
Workplaces
Community events

Whether it’s offering a gentle paw to hold, providing a moment of calm during a stressful day, or simply sharing a wagging tail and a friendly face, Therapy Dogs have an incredible ability to lift spirits and create meaningful connections.

What Makes a Good Therapy Dog?

To thrive in this important role, a Therapy Dog must have:

An even temperament
A stable and calm disposition
Confidence in a range of environments
Friendliness and a willingness to engage with all kinds of people

From the quiet halls of a nursing home to the lively bustle of a classroom, Therapy Dogs must remain composed. They need to be responsive, relaxed, and happy to interact without becoming overwhelmed.

Paws for Purpose – Therapy Dog Training

At Canine Command Gold Coast, we are proud to support those who wish to share their dog’s special gift with the community. Through our affiliated International Dog Training School, we offer a dedicated Therapy Dog Training Course called Paws for Purpose.

This specialised course helps both handler and dog develop the skills needed to confidently and safely participate in Therapy Dog work, preparing you both for the rewarding journey ahead.

Why Therapy Dogs Matter

Therapy Dogs are a shining example of the bond between humans and animals — a bond that has the power to comfort, heal and unite. Their visits bring smiles, spark conversations and often create lasting memories for those they meet. Your dog’s gift could light up someone’s day, ease their loneliness, or simply remind them that they are not alone.

Interested in Joining Us?

If you believe your dog has the right temperament, and you would like to learn more about our Paws for Purpose programme, we would love to hear from you. Join our Paws for Purpose programme and discover just how powerful a paw, a nose, and a wagging tail can be.