Pups showcase guide skills in Sydney

Assistance dogs can pick up dropped items, open and close doors, or even press the button at traffic lights.

But the most important service they can provide is to be a best mate, says Assistance Dogs Australia CEO Richard Lord.

Thursday marked Assistance Dogs Awareness Day, celebrating the impact assistance dogs have on the lives of those with physical disabilities, autism, PTSD victims and dementia sufferers.

Mr Lord said assistance dogs provide a physical and mental anchor for their owners, as well as performing essential everyday tasks.

"They're always there for you, always love you, never give away your secrets and are always smiling," Mr Lord said in Sydney.

"They're also great icebreakers, allowing people to meet, to make contact and to feel part of the community again.

"To have that bond is absolutely amazing."

The organisation celebrated the occasion in Martin Place by showcasing the ability of assistance dogs to pull off clothing, collect dropped phones and bark on command.

Volunteer Lisa Minchin, 39, praised the organisation's mission and generosity.

"I think it's a really worthy cause. I think it's fantastic the work they do to help people with disabilities, and I also love dogs."