As interest grows in programs that improve prison inmates’ behavior and psychosocial well-being, any such interventions must be rigorously examined and their underlying mechanisms for change must be understood. This pilot study examined the use of prison-based dog training programs across Washington State Department of Corrections facilities for their impacts on inmates’ infraction rates. The study also compared levels of empathy, self-efficacy, and anxiety between program participants and nonparticipants. Findings indicated that prison dog program participants’ infraction rates improved and that participants had lower levels of anxiety than nonparticipants.

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Summary Though a growing body of evidence supports the efficacy of prison-based dog training programs, research on the process of change or the underlying mechanisms of change for incarcerated individuals who participate in these programs is limited. This qualitative study used interviews with 21 dog program staff to examine the utility of empowerment theory as a theoretical framework for understanding mechanisms of change for participants in prison-based dog training programs. Findings Thematic analysis of interviews with program staff indicated that outcomes of prison-based dog training programs are consistent with constructs of empowerment theory. Reported outcomes were more aligned with individual-level empowerment; however, participation in these programs addressed some structural issues of power within the correctional institution. Analysis resulted in six themes: (1) finding purpose and meaning, (2) enhanced self-concept, (3) skill development, (4) greater perceived control, (5) increased community engagement, and (6) positive post-release outcomes. Applications The alignment of prison-based dog training program outcomes with constructs of empowerment theory suggests that positive outcomes may be related to empowering handlers, though human–animal interactions and positive reinforcement training were often mentioned by staff. Consequently, programs may benefit from using empowerment theory as a guiding framework in program design and training of program staff. Prison-based dog training programs may be of particular interest to social workers in correctional settings, as program features align with core social work values of social justice, dignity and worth of the person, and the importance of human relationships.

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