Understanding the Two ADA Questions: Know Your Rights

If you have a service dog, you need to know your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Understanding what businesses can and cannot ask you is essential for confident public access.

The Two Legal Questions

Under the ADA, when it is not obvious what service an animal provides, businesses and government entities may ask only two questions: Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? And what work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

What You Do Not Have to Disclose

Businesses cannot ask about your disability, require medical documentation, require special identification or training documentation for the dog, or ask that the dog demonstrate its ability to perform the task. Your privacy is protected by law.

How to Respond Confidently

Keep your answers simple and factual. For question one, Yes this is a service dog is sufficient. For question two, briefly state what task your dog performs: She alerts me to medical episodes or He helps me with mobility assistance. You do not need to explain your medical condition.

What Businesses Cannot Do

Businesses cannot ask you to remove your service dog unless the dog is out of control and you do not take effective action, or the dog is not housebroken. Minor barking or a one-time incident does not constitute being out of control. The business must give you the opportunity to regain control first.

The Certification Myth

There is no official service dog registry or certification in the United States. Any website selling service dog certificates, registrations, or ID cards is not providing anything legally required or recognized under the ADA. Your service dog is legitimate based on their training and your disability, not on paperwork. Businesses cannot require you to show documentation.

What to Do If Denied Access

If a business illegally denies you access with your service dog, remain calm and polite. Explain the ADA requirements and the two questions they can ask. If they still refuse, ask to speak with a manager. Document the incident including date, time, location, and names of employees involved. You can file a complaint with the Department of Justice ADA Information Line.

At The Sharp K9, we help service dog handlers understand their rights and prepare for public access. Our training ensures both you and your dog are ready for confident, legal access to public spaces.

Need help ensuring your service dog meets ADA standards? Contact The Sharp K9 for professional service dog training that prepares both you and your dog for confident public access.