Service Dog Questions: What Can and Cannot Be Asked

Questions That May Legally Be Asked

1. “Is this a service dog required because of a disability?”
   • This is a basic screening question that establishments are permitted to ask.
   • You can simply answer “Yes” without elaborating on your specific disability.
2. “What work or tasks has the dog been trained to perform?”
   • You should be prepared to explain the specific tasks your dog performs.
   • Example response: “My dog is trained to alert me to sounds/provide stability support/retrieve items/alert to medical conditions.”
   • You do not need to demonstrate these tasks or provide documentation of training.
3. “Is your dog housebroken?”
   • Service animals must be housebroken to maintain access rights.
   • A simple “Yes” is sufficient.
4. “Do you have any documentation or identification for your service dog?” (In provinces with certification programs)
   • In provinces like BC, Alberta, and Nova Scotia that have certification programs, you may be asked to show government-issued ID.
   • Response depends on your province and whether you have such documentation. Our Digital ID fulfills all Canadian requirements.
5. “Can you maintain control of your dog at all times?”
   • Service dogs must be under handler’s control.
   • You can affirm that your dog is trained to remain under your control. A simple “Yes” is sufficient.

Questions That Cannot Legally Be Asked

1. “What is your disability?” or “What’s wrong with you?”
   • This violates privacy and human rights protections.
   • You are not required to disclose your specific disability or medical condition.
2. “Can you show me what your dog can do?” or “Prove that your dog is trained.”
   • While you must state what tasks your dog performs, you cannot be required to demonstrate them.
   • This would be intrusive and potentially disruptive.
3. “Do you have a doctor’s note/prescription for your service dog?”
   • While some handlers carry such documentation voluntarily, it cannot be required as a condition of entry to public accommodations.
4. “Why can’t you just leave your dog outside/at home?”
   • This questions your need for accommodation and is inappropriate.
5. “Why don’t you use other assistive devices instead?”
   • This questions your choice of accommodation and is inappropriate.

What You Are Required to Provide When Asked

1. Verbal confirmation that the dog is a service animal and is required because of a disability.
2. Verbal explanation of the specific work or tasks the dog has been trained to perform.
3. In certain provinces only: Government-issued ID card or certificate if you have one from provinces with certification programs (BC, Alberta, Nova Scotia). Our Digital ID fulfills all Canadian requirements.
4. For air travel: Airlines may require advance notice (usually 48 hours) and may ask for specific documentation according to their policies, which must comply with the Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations.
5. For rental housing: Landlords may request more documentation than public accommodations, potentially including a letter confirming your need for a service animal (but not detailing your specific disability).

Important Notes

• You are never required to disclose the nature or details of your disability.
• You are not required to carry or show medical documentation about your disability.
• You are not required to show training certificates unless you’re in a province with a specific certification program and you’re using that program’s benefits.
• Service dogs are not required to wear vests, patches, or specific equipment, though many handlers choose to use these to reduce questions.
• If you are denied access with your legitimate service dog, you may file a complaint with your provincial human rights commission.

This information reflects Canadian law as of September 2025. Provincial regulations may vary, so it’s advisable to be familiar with the specific requirements in your province of residence.