Obedience implies compliance with the direction or command given by the handler. For a dog to be considered obedient rather than simply trained in obedience, it must respond reliably each time its handler gives a commands. Training a dog in obedience can be an ongoing and lengthy process depending on the dog, the methods used, and the skill and understanding of both the trainer and the handler. The level of obedience the handler wishes to achieve with the dog is also a major factor in the time involved, as is the commitment to training by the handler.

A personal protection dog is not only a companion, it is a dog selected for a job, and trained extensively for that job. Along with the training, this type of dog also comes with a special responsibility. As the dogs owner, you must be trained in handling the dog through obedience, as well as through all your protection scenarios. Just like training law enforcement and military k-9's, protection dogs require maintenance, control, and proper guidance. You cannot expect your dog to perform well if you don't maintain their training. Dog selection is critical for this capability.

An emotional support animal (ESA), is a type of assistance animal that alleviates a symptom or effect of a person's disability. An emotional support animal differs from a service animal. Service animals are trained to perform specific tasks (such as helping a blind person navigate), while emotional support animals receive basic obedience training for public access. Any animal that provides support, well-being, comfort, or aid, to an individual through companionship, unconditional positive regard, and affection may be regarded as an emotional support animal.

In scent detection dogs learn how to search for a specific target odor or odors and locate the source. Dogs can start by searching for their favorite food or toy reward hidden in a variety of environments, increasing the challenges and adding new search skills as the dog progresses. Most people will choose to have their dogs learn to find target odors used in K-9 Nose Work such birch, anise, and clove. Those looking for practical applications would use explosives, narcotics, currency, etc. Once target odors are introduced to the dog, he/she will search for the odor and find its source, then get rewarded by the handler with a treat or toy.