Become a Puppy Training Volunteer. Help change lives by raising a future assistance dog!
Canine Partners is looking for caring volunteers to raise, socialise, and train puppies from 8 weeks old until around 14–18 months, preparing them for their life-changing role. Occasionally, older puppies may also need temporary homes.
Why Volunteer?
By becoming a Puppy Training Volunteer, you will: Play a vital role in shaping a dog that will transform someone's life. Enjoy the companionship of a dog without the long-term commitment or costs. Join a supportive community of like-minded people. Learn about puppy development and training.“Without our incredible volunteers, we couldn't provide life-changing dogs to our clients.
What's Involved:
This is a long-term volunteer role, as the puppy will live with you full-time. Responsibilities include: Attending regular training sessions on weekdays (group classes, 1:1s, home visits, virtual sessions). Exposing the puppy to various environments (public transport, busy towns, children, other animals, etc.). Teaching basic cues, obedience, socialisation, and managing home behaviour. Maintaining the dog's health and wellbeing under the guidance of your Puppy Training Coordinator.
Requirements:
Be 18+ and live in a house, bungalow or ground-floor flat with a private, secure garden. Be at home most of the day and within our Puppy Training Region. Have time, stamina, and access to a car for training and vet appointments. Dog-owning households (max 2 dogs) are welcome to apply if your pets are over 18 months and of suitable temperament. Note: Puppies remain the property of Canine Partners, and guidance from our team must be followed.
Support & Benefits:
Full induction, including form, interview, home visit, and training. Ongoing support and resources from your Puppy Training Coordinator. Access to volunteer portal, training materials, and community Facebook group. Mileage reimbursement for travel to official training sessions. Holiday and appointment cover can be arranged. No previous dog experience needed—just a willingness to learn and meet the criteria above.
Interested? Even if you can only offer limited time, we'd love to hear from you!