Service Dogs in Training Laws in Idaho
Overview

Idaho law provides public access protections for service dogs in training (SDITs), allowing qualified trainers and individuals with disabilities to bring dogs in training into many public places.

Unlike federal law under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which does not specifically grant public access rights to service animals in training, Idaho law expressly recognizes service dogs in training and grants them public accommodation protections under state statute.

Legal Foundation

Idaho’s service animal and SDIT laws are primarily found in:

• Idaho Code § 56-704A

• Idaho Code § 56-704B

• Idaho Code § 18-5812B

• Idaho Code § 56-701A

• Idaho Code § 56-706

These laws protect individuals with disabilities and certain trainers using service dogs or service dogs in training in places of public accommodation.

Service Dogs in Training Under Idaho Law

Idaho law specifically recognizes “dogs-in-training” and grants public access rights to persons training or socializing service dogs.

Under Idaho Code § 18-5812B:

“A person shall not be denied” access to public accommodations because they are accompanied by a dog-in-training.

Idaho law allows:

• Individuals with disabilities training their own service dog

• Persons specially training or socializing a service dog

• Certain trainers affiliated with service dog organizations

to bring SDITs into public places for training purposes.

Public Access Rights

Service dogs in training may generally accompany handlers and trainers into places open to the public, including:

• Restaurants and food establishments

• Retail stores and shopping centers

• Hotels and lodging

• Public transportation

• Government buildings

• Hospitals and medical offices

• Most places open to the general public

Idaho law grants SDITs substantially similar access rights as fully trained service dogs when statutory requirements are met.

Additionally:

• Businesses may not charge extra fees or deposits because of a service dog or service dog in training.

Requirements for Service Dogs in Training

Idaho imposes several specific requirements for SDITs.

Service dogs in training must generally:

• Be properly leashed so the handler can maintain control

• Be under control at all times

• Be appropriately groomed and non-disruptive

• Be visually identified as a dog-in-training under Idaho law

Idaho law allows temporary denial of access if:

• The dog is poorly groomed and creates a health hazard

• The handler cannot maintain control of the dog

Unlike some states, Idaho does not require statewide registration or certification for fully trained service dogs. However, SDITs connected with schools or organizations may need identification showing the dog is in training.

Who Can Train a Service Dog

Idaho protects:

• Individuals with disabilities training their own dog

• Persons specially training or socializing a service dog

• Trainers associated with recognized service dog schools or organizations

Idaho law does not require all service dog trainers to hold professional certification.

Handler Responsibilities

The handler or trainer is responsible for:

• Maintaining control of the dog

• Preventing disruptive or dangerous behavior

• Ensuring the dog does not create health or safety hazards

• Paying for damage caused by the dog

Idaho law specifically states:

• Individuals with disabilities may be liable for damage caused by their service dog

• A school or organization responsible for a dog-in-training may be liable for damages caused during training

A business may require removal of the dog if:

• The dog is out of control

• The dog is not housebroken

• The handler cannot effectively control the dog

• The dog creates a legitimate health or safety concern

What Businesses Can and Cannot Do

Businesses MAY:

• Ask whether the dog is required because of a disability

• Ask what work or task the dog has been trained to perform

Businesses MAY NOT:

• Require certification or registration

• Demand proof of disability

• Charge additional fees or deposits

• Deny access solely because the dog is still in training under Idaho law

Misrepresentation and Interference

Idaho law prohibits:

• Fraudulent misrepresentation of a pet as a service animal

• Intentional interference with a service dog or service dog in training

• Intentionally frightening, battering, obstructing, or intimidating a service dog or handler

Violations may result in:

• Misdemeanor criminal charges

• Fines

• Civil liability

• Possible jail time in some circumstances

Federal vs. Idaho Law

ADA (federal law):

• Does not specifically grant public access rights to service dogs in training

Idaho law:

• Explicitly recognizes and protects service dogs in training and their trainers in public accommodations

Because Idaho law provides broader protections in this area, those state protections generally apply within Idaho.

Summary

• Idaho allows service dogs in training in public places

• Trainers and individuals with disabilities are both protected

• SDITs must be leashed, controlled, and properly identified as dogs-in-training

• Businesses cannot charge extra fees or deny access solely because a dog is in training

• Trainers and organizations may be liable for damages caused by SDITs

• Interfering with or misrepresenting service animals may result in criminal penalties

Sources

Idaho Code § 56-704A – Rights of Individuals with Service Dogs:
https://legislature.idaho.gov

Idaho Code § 56-704B – Rights of Individuals with Dogs-in-Training:
https://legislature.idaho.gov

Idaho Code § 18-5812B – Dogs-in-Training Access Rights:
https://legislature.idaho.gov

Disability Rights Idaho:
https://www.disabilityrightsidaho.org

Disclaimer

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations may change, and their application can vary depending on specific circumstances. For the most current and accurate information, consult official Idaho statutes or a qualified attorney.

Service Dogs in Training Laws in the State of Idaho are Recognized!