The AKC® Therapy Dog Program is designed to recognize and celebrate the contributions of dogs who provide comfort and support to people in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and other therapeutic settings. Therapy dogs play a vital role in improving the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals by offering companionship, reducing stress, and bringing joy to those in need. The program encourages dog owners to train and certify their dogs as therapy animals, focusing on the development of calm, friendly, and reliable behaviors that are essential for therapy work. The AKC® Therapy Dog Program acknowledges the importance of these dogs' service and promotes the benefits of therapy dog involvement in communities.

Dogs that participate in the AKC® Therapy Dog Program can earn official titles based on the number of documented visits they complete. These titles, ranging from Therapy Dog Novice® (THDN) to Therapy Dog Distinguished® (THDD), recognize the dedication and impact of therapy dogs and their handlers. Earning an AKC Therapy Dog title not only honors the dog’s work but also highlights the positive influence therapy dogs have on the lives they touch. The program encourages responsible dog ownership and the expansion of therapy dog teams, ultimately fostering a greater awareness of the value these dogs bring to society.