You can ask people with service dogs if it’s ok to pet and most times they are fine with that, the issue is with people running up and petting the dog without asking. Service dogs are very well behaved and usually love a good head pat
No. The difference is in level of training. Some service dogs need to remain undistracted. Other service dogs are alerting on things they notice no matter how distracted they are. This is why you ask.
You can ask people with service dogs if it’s ok to pet and most times they are fine with that, the issue is with people running up and petting the dog without asking. Service dogs are very well behaved and usually love a good head pat
Then it’s likely not a service dog, but an emotional support animal. There is a MASSIVE difference, and people treat them like they are the same.
Eta: so I may not be entirely right. In my experience, I was always told if they’re dressed for service they shouldn’t be touched by anyone else.
No. The difference is in level of training. Some service dogs need to remain undistracted. Other service dogs are alerting on things they notice no matter how distracted they are. This is why you ask.