M.D. Dogs Inc

M.D. Dogs offers two pathways: self-training using free books and videos, or applying for a fully trained Diabetic Alert Dog. Self-trainers follow step-by-step guides to teach scent detection and alert behaviors using positive reinforcement. For those seeking a trained dog, applicants complete a 4-hour online class, a Zoom interview, a conversation with a current recipient, and an in-person home visit before matching. Dogs undergo 12+ months of training in the trainer’s home, with skills progressing from basic obedience to advanced scent detection and public access readiness.

Pricing Summary

Self-training resources are free. Fully trained Diabetic Alert Dogs are offered through fundraising fees ranging from $12,000 to $24,500, depending on training level and environment suitability. Physical copies of training books are available for purchase on Amazon. Consultations are scheduled via Calendly with no listed fees for basic phone consults; video calls or review of recorded sessions may incur additional charges.

Policies

Applicants must read the FAQ page before contacting support. Consultations are scheduled via Calendly with no stated cancellation policy. Donations are encouraged to keep resources free but are not required. All training materials are provided with disclaimers that DADs are not substitutes for medical devices.

M.D. Dogs Inc is a nonprofit organization founded by Libby Rockaway that specializes in training Diabetic Alert Dogs (DADs) for individuals with type 1 diabetes. They provide free, comprehensive self-training resources including a downloadable book and over 30 instructional videos to help owners train their own dogs to alert to low and high blood sugar levels using positive reinforcement techniques. They also train and match 2–4 fully trained DADs annually, raising them in their home with family integration and exposing them to thousands of hours of scent and behavior training. Their unique approach emphasizes transparency, affordability, and accessibility, offering fully trained dogs at fundraising fees between $12,000–$24,500 instead of market rates of $21,000–$52,000. All training methods are based on reward-based, game-like learning to build confident, happy dogs.

M.D. Dogs does not offer general pet training but focuses exclusively on medical alert dog training for diabetes. They provide personalized consultations with the founder, Libby Rockaway, via phone or video to guide applicants through dog selection, training questions, or determining if a DAD is right for them. Their dogs are primarily English Cocker Spaniels, sourced from breeders or donations, and trained to detect blood sugar changes as low as 80 mg/dL and as high as 180 mg/dL using nose nudges or other alert behaviors.

They do not offer grooming, boarding, walking, or daycare services. Their mission is to empower individuals to train their own dogs or access a trained dog without the high costs typical in the service dog industry, while maintaining strict medical safety guidelines that emphasize DADs are not replacements for glucose monitors.

Accomplishments

Founder Libby Rockaway authored the definitive guide _Diabetic Alert Dog Training Steps_, now in its second edition, and created a配套 video series demonstrating real puppy training progress. M.D. Dogs is recognized for pioneering transparent, affordable access to diabetic alert dog training and has trained and matched over 20 dogs annually since founding. Their methods are referenced in peer-reviewed research and used globally by families with type 1 diabetes.

How to Get Started!

For self-training, begin by downloading the free book and videos from the Training Resources page. To apply for a trained DAD, complete the online application form, then proceed through a 4-hour online class, Zoom interview, conversation with a recipient, and in-person home visit. Consultations for guidance are booked via Calendly links on the Consults & Contact page.