What are the best guide dogs for the blind: breeds and photos

Working with blind people requires a dog of great intelligence, patience and empathy in order to find 100% common ground with its owner. They must understand where the person is going, warn of obstacles or dangers and even properly interact with those they meet. This is no ordinary task. The first dog that comes along will not be able to cope with it.

Of course, the potential for a guide dog depends a lot on the personal characteristics of each dog. But some breeds are more inclined to successfully prove themselves as guides. OBOZREVATEL gathered the top five.

Labrador Retriever

Representatives of the breed are champions of effective human interaction, for which they are on top of the most popular dogs' list. It's a great family pet that can also be a skilled guide dog. In fact, Labrador Retrievers is the most frequent dog breed to choose as guides. They are known for their intelligence and loyalty, are easy to train and love to lead. They are also calm and hardworking. They are also not prone to aggression at all. They cooperate with a blind owner as a full-fledged partner. At the same time it is easy enough to take care of such a dog.

Golden Retriever

Goldens are great at communicating not only with people but also with other animals. They are optimistic, cheerful and affectionate. They are also easy to train and show unconditional loyalty to their owners. One of the key advantages of this breed is that with proper training can take their violent energy under control. The Golden Retrievers' joyfulness and goodhealth give them even more points.

The German Shepherd

All-rounder dogs, such as German Shepherds, are suitable for all kinds of qualities if practiced from childhood. They can be very strict and dangerous guards or absolutely obedient and patient guides. All because of an innate intuition and sensitivity to humans. German shepherds were the first to master the profession of guide dog. It happened after the First World War, when these dogs discharged from military service were used to help their owners-veterans who had received eye injuries in the battles. Now they are somewhat inferior to retrievers in this profession, as they have a sterner nature. However, they are still on the list of leaders.

The Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd Dog is characterized by good-naturedness and a high level of energy. Therefore, representatives of this breed are advised to take as a companion for blind people with an active temperament. They are innate empaths who are good at sensing their human's desires and emotions and are also quite good at controlling their own feelings. These dogs are intelligent, adaptable and can learn quickly. Also, Australian Shepherds are fluffy and pleasant to the touch, which can be very important for visually impaired and blind people.

Poodle

Many people unfamiliar with this wonderful breed are surprised that a poodle can be a working dog. However, it is one of the most intelligent dogs by all tests. Poodles are quick learners and good with people. They literally strive to please their owner. They also perfectly adapt to different conditions and circumstances. They are instantly involved in the situation and react accordingly. An additional advantage of the breed is that they are hypoallergenic. However, stereotypes about this breed can make some problems. Outsiders who would look at the German Shepherd with respect and do not interfere with its work, may not take the poodle seriously and will rush to pet him.

Earlier OBOZREVATEL told about the breeds of dogs that are the worst to be trained.

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