Skip to content

Canine Companion

Pet dogs placed in homes with an adult or child with a physical disability who would benefit from companionship and emotional support.

What a Canine Companion does

Canine Companions are pet dogs placed with individuals or families where practical task support is not needed. They offer companionship and the everyday benefits of living with a dog, supporting wellbeing.

Support within the home

Canine Companions do not have public access rights and are not trained to carry out assistance tasks. They’re placed as much-loved pets, where their presence and personality can make a meaningful difference.

Building connection and wellbeing

Living with a companion dog can support routine, increase social interaction, and encourage regular activity. Daily walks and shared care responsibilities can reduce loneliness and contribute to a stronger sense of belonging within the community.

Is this the right partnership for me?

Canine Companions are suitable for individuals or families where companionship is the primary need. A member of the household must have a diagnosed physical disability and live permanently in the UK. Homes must be able to meet the dog’s long-term care, exercise and financial needs. This role is not suitable if practical task assistance or public access support is required.

How to apply in the future

Applications for Canine Companions are currently closed while we support people already assessed and on our waiting list. Register your interest for future updates by signing up to our monthly e-news letter ‘Fetch’.

Explore our other canine careers

Yellow Labrador assistance dog removing a sock for their partner in a wheelchair

Canine Partner

Assistance dogs expertly trained to provide practical support at home and in public for adults with physical disabilities.

Black Labrador Canine Home Assistant retrieving an item for their partner in a wheelchair at home

Canine Home Assistant

Assistance dogs trained to provide practical support within the home for adults with physical disabilities.

Broods

Assistance dogs selected to become the mothers of future life-changing puppies.

Canine Partners Dog Ambassador team member demonstrating with their black Labrador Dog Ambassador

Dog Ambassadors

Represent us at events, talks and demonstrations across the UK, they showcase the skills and confidence of our assistance dogs and the difference they can make.

Sponsor a Puppy Donate