Top 10 Questions for Dog Raiser Interview

1. Tell me about your experience raising dogs, and what breeds have you raised?

• In the past 10 years, I have raised and trained over 50 dogs.
• I raised and trained various breeds, including Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Poodles.

2. What is your approach to dog training?

Positive Reinforcement

• I believe in using positive reinforcement to train dogs.
• I reward dogs for good behavior and ignore or redirect negative behavior.

Consistency

• I am consistent with my training methods, so the dog knows what to expect.
• I use the same commands and cues every time I want the dog to perform a behavior.

Patience

• I am patient with dogs when they are learning new behaviors.
• I understand that every dog learns at a different pace.

3. How do you handle aggressive behavior in dogs?

• I first try to identify the cause of the aggression.
• Once I know the cause, I can develop a plan to address it.
• I may use positive reinforcement to teach the dog alternative behaviors.
• I may also use desensitization and counter-conditioning to help the dog overcome its fears or anxieties.

4. What are some of the challenges you have faced while raising dogs?

• One challenge I have faced is dealing with dogs that have come from abusive or neglectful homes.
• These dogs often have behavioral problems that can be difficult to correct.
• I have also faced challenges with dogs that have health problems.
• These dogs may require special care and attention.

5. How do you ensure the health and well-being of the dogs in your care?

• I provide regular vaccinations and veterinary checkups.
• I feed the dogs a healthy diet and make sure they have access to clean water.
• I provide the dogs with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
• I groom the dogs regularly and keep their living areas clean.

6. How do you handle emergencies with dogs?

• I remain calm and assess the situation.
• I call the veterinarian immediately if the dog is injured or sick.
• I follow the veterinarian’s instructions for care.
• I keep the dog comfortable and safe until the veterinarian arrives.

7. How do you socialize dogs?

• I introduce the dogs to new people, places, and things in a positive and controlled way.
• I start by exposing the dogs to new experiences in short, supervised sessions.
• As the dogs become more comfortable, I gradually increase the length and complexity of the exposures.
• I also use positive reinforcement to encourage the dogs to interact with new people and things.

8. What is your favorite part about raising dogs?

• My favorite part about raising dogs is seeing the progress they make.
• I love watching them learn new things and become more confident and well-behaved.
• I also enjoy the companionship of dogs.
• They are loyal and loving creatures that make me laugh every day.

9. What are your goals as a dog raiser?

• My goal as a dog raiser is to provide dogs with a safe, loving, and enriching environment.
• I want to help the dogs develop their full potential and become happy, healthy, and well-adjusted members of their families.
• I also want to educate dog owners about responsible dog ownership and care.

10. Why are you interested in this position?

• I am interested in this position because I am passionate about dogs and I have a proven track record of successfully raising and training them.
• I am confident that I can use my skills and experience to make a positive contribution to your organization.
• I am also excited about the opportunity to work with a team of dedicated professionals who share my passion for dogs.

Dog Raisers play a significant role in preparing dogs to become service animals, bridging the gap between trained canines and individuals in need. Their key responsibilities encompass:

1. Puppy Care and Training

From the moment they welcome puppies into their homes, Dog Raisers nurture and train them, laying the foundation for their future as service animals.

• Provide basic care, including feeding, grooming, and veterinary check-ups
• Introduce obedience commands and socialize puppies in various environments
• Lay the groundwork for task-specific training, such as retrieving items or assisting with balance

2. Emotional Support and Socialization

Dog Raisers provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for puppies, fostering their emotional and social development.

• Build strong bonds with puppies, providing comfort and security
• Expose puppies to different people, animals, and situations, promoting socialization skills
• Help puppies adjust to a variety of settings, from busy streets to quiet homes

3. Public Access Training

Preparing puppies to navigate public spaces is crucial for their future success as service animals.

• Take puppies to public places, such as stores, restaurants, and transportation hubs
• Teach puppies appropriate behavior in public, including maintaining focus, ignoring distractions, and following commands
• Ensure puppies are comfortable and well-behaved in various public settings

4. Record Keeping and Reporting

Dog Raisers meticulously track and document the progress of their puppies.

• Maintain detailed records of puppy training, health, and behavior
• Report regularly to the service animal organization, providing updates on puppy development and training
• Contribute to ongoing research by sharing data on puppy training and socialization

Ace the interview for a Dog Raiser position with these helpful tips:

1. Research the Organization

Learn about the service animal organization you’re applying to, their mission, and training methods.

• Visit their website and social media pages to gather information
• If possible, reach out to current or former Dog Raisers to gain insights

2. Highlight Your Passion for Dogs

Emphasize your love and commitment to dogs, demonstrating your experience and understanding of their needs.

• Share examples of your dog-related volunteer work or previous pet ownership
• Describe your knowledge of dog behavior, training techniques, and health care

3. Showcase Your Training and Socialization Skills

Highlight your ability to train and socialize dogs effectively, using positive reinforcement and patience.

• Provide specific examples of successful training outcomes you’ve achieved
• Explain your approach to socializing puppies and preparing them for public access

4. Emphasize Your Communication and Record-Keeping Abilities

Explain your strong communication skills and ability to maintain detailed records.

• Describe your experience in reporting and sharing information regularly
• Highlight your commitment to accuracy and attention to detail

5. Prepare for Common Interview Questions

Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful answers that demonstrate your qualifications.

• Why are you interested in becoming a Dog Raiser?
• What experience do you have in training and socializing dogs?
• How would you handle a challenging situation with a puppy?
• What are your expectations and responsibilities as a Dog Raiser?
• Do you have any questions for us?