The National Service Dogs program, based in Cambridge, is in search of foster homes for five puppies, with seven more on the way.

The puppies are eight weeks old and will be trained to be full-fledged service dogs. But first they need to be house-trained and get used to people and being in public spaces.

The program is looking for foster parents to help raise the dogs by taking them in for 18 months.

"[Parents are] expected to do all the basic training, the house-breaking, and socializing the puppy, which is the most important thing," said Garry Stephenson, the National Service Dog's breeder.

"Obviously the dog is not a pet, so there are certain guidelines that we like to stick to," said Stephenson.

A good candidate, he said, is willing to have fun and take the time to attend regular puppy classes at the service dog centre in Cambridge.

The program covers all the costs of the dogs, including food and medical care.