Popular Guide Dog Breeds: A Comprehensive List
When it comes to guide dogs, Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are at the top of the list. These dogs are incredibly intelligent and wellbehaved, with a gentle and amiable temperament. They have a special affinity for children and are nonaggressive towards both humans and animals. German Shepherds are also a viable option, though less common. We highly recommend Labradors and Goldens. However, it's important to note that Golden Retrievers can be quite mischievous as puppies, which might be challenging for some. It's best to wait until they are fully grown before introducing them to blind individuals.
Each dog has its own unique personality, and not all Labradors and Goldens are suited for guide dog work. If you're interested in finding a guide dog, it's crucial to start the selection and training process early, as it requires experience in dog training. Training a guide dog can be quite costly. In China, there are specialized guide dog training institutions, but their services can be expensive and often in high demand.
Guide dogs are a type of working dog, and while many breeds can be trained for this role, the most common varieties include Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Poodles, and even crossbreeds specifically bred for guide dog work, such as the Golden Labrador mix known as Ohara.
Most guide dogs come from guide dog schools, where they are bred from lines with a clean history, free from any record of aggression towards humans or genetic disorders. This is not just for show; it's essential for the safety of the dogs and the cost of training. In China, the most common breeds for guide dog training are Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. These dogs are wellsuited for the role due to their moderate size, ease of handling, and their reputation for being exceptionally gentle and eventempered. They have a strong sense of selfdiscipline and are not easily distracted or influenced by external stimuli, making them excellent companions for their owners.
For those looking to learn more about guide dogs, we recommend reading the article "Why Labradors Make Excellent Guide Dogs" for a deeper understanding.
