Can AI Really Pick Better Service Dogs Than Humans?

AI Model That Predicts Service Dog Success with 80% Accuracy

Imagine you're picking a puppy to become a future service dog. You’re watching how they play, how they focus, how they interact with people. But what if an AI model could do it better than you?

According to a new study by phys.org, artificial intelligence has now outperformed humans in identifying which puppies are most likely to succeed in service dog training. And that’s shaking up how organizations—and even pet parents—might approach early dog behavior evaluation and obedience training.

The Research:

A collaborative study involving AI specialists, dog trainers, and veterinary researchers developed an AI-based tool that predicts service dog success with up to 80% accuracy. By analyzing extensive behavior and training progress data from organizations like The Seeing Eye, Inc., the model could help improve the service dog selection process significantly.

Why This Is a Big Deal:

The process of choosing the right dog for service dog training has always been equal parts instinct and experience. Trainers have relied on temperament testing, observation, and a little bit of gut feeling. But now, with data-driven tools like AI, we’re entering a new era of predictive dog training methods.

🔍 The Study in a Nutshell:

Researchers trained the AI on years of puppy behavior and performance data. It correctly identified which puppies were most likely to succeed in psychiatric service dog training—often with greater accuracy than professional trainers. This breakthrough could reduce mismatches and lead to more successful service dog teams.

What This Means for Pet Parents and Service Dog Handlers:

Here’s the kicker: most pet parents don’t have access to large-scale service dog breeding programs or cutting-edge AI. But the insight this research provides is still incredibly useful—especially for those wondering if their dog is a good candidate for task-based service dog training.

👉 It’s still about observation—but now informed by science.

Even without high-tech tools, you can still assess key traits for service dogs:

• Focus and recovery: Does your dog bounce back quickly from new or stressful situations?
• Engagement: Does your dog check in with you or offer eye contact without being prompted?
• Motivation: Is your dog eager to learn and responsive to positive reinforcement?

At Paws on Planes Inc., we help people like you train service dogs for air travel 

We combine obedience training, public access training, and real-world travel exposure so your dog is confident and calm—whether you're in the airport, on a plane, or checking into a hotel. Whether you're preparing for flying with a psychiatric service dog or need help selecting the right pup to start your journey, we’re here to guide you.

Final Thoughts:

AI isn’t replacing trainers—it’s giving us better tools to make informed decisions. For future service dog handlers, this means more confidence in choosing the right puppy and starting your training program on the right paw.

✨ Want help evaluating your dog’s potential as a Psychiatric Service Dog, or need guidance with travel training for service dogs?
👉 Book a consult with me today