Mobility assistance dog

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A mobility assistance dog is a kind of service dog trained to help a person that is physically disabled. Among many tasks, they are commonly trained to pick up objects, open and close doors, and operate light switches. Some larger-statured dogs are trained to pull individuals in wheelchairs, and wear a type of harness generally more sturdy than the capes or vests service dogs usually wear.

Another type of mobility assistance dog task is that of a "walker dog." They are commonly used for Parkinson's patients, along with post-injury recovering and other disorders and conditions. These "living canes" can greatly assist a person with their gait and balance while walking. Also, if their handler falls, the dog may be trained to act as a brace to help regain position.

As with other types of assistance dogs, in many countries mobility assistance dogs are afforded rights of access to places where animals are generally not allowed, such as public transportation, restaurants, and hotels. In the United States, federal laws cause denying access to an assistance dog to have heavy penalties.