Are Goldens & Labs the ONLY Breed Accepted as Service Dogs?
No, of course not! They are two very popular breeds because of their trainability, but they are definitely not the only option available for people looking to get a service dog. While most programs prefer to use Goldens or Labs, there are some programs that train other breeds such as German Shepherds or Dobermans.
There are also programs who will train your dog for you - no matter the breed.
And with owner-training, you should pick the dog breed that will best suit your needs. Keep in mind though, that some breeds can be more difficult to handle/train than others
if you don't have experience training dogs or working with that breed.
There are also programs who will train your dog for you - no matter the breed.
And with owner-training, you should pick the dog breed that will best suit your needs. Keep in mind though, that some breeds can be more difficult to handle/train than others
if you don't have experience training dogs or working with that breed.
Does Size Matter?
Yes and No.
Think about what type of assistance you are needing from your dog.
Think about what type of assistance you are needing from your dog.
- Is it going to be a mobility dog that aids with balance and stability or will be opening doors and carrying things? If yes, think LARGE DOG.
- Is it going to be a medical alert dog that will warn you if a seizure is coming or your blood sugar is low? Here, size becomes your preference. Will it be doing additional tasks that may require size? I have talked to people who use Pomeranians, Terrier breeds, and Scent breeds like beagles, as service dogs because they don't need a large dog to effectively give them alerts.
- Is it going to be a guide or hearing dog? Guide dogs need to be LARGE so that they can effectively guide you. Hearing dogs are usually medium - large as well for the same reason. They need to be able to get your attention, and often perform additional tasks.
Do I Have to Get a PureBred?
Nope. Some people will say that purebreds are better, but that - I have found - is personal preference, not fact. Purebreds have a higher chance of developing inherited medical problems as they grow older, such as hip dysplasia. Some breeds are more prone to it than others. Working dogs are also at a greater risk of developing it because of their constant use. Having a mixed breed doesn't mean your dog won't ever develop medical problems, but it can add a little luck to your side.
It may be helpful to know what your dog is or is mixed with, to get a better idea of his genetic disposition (what that breed was initially used for), which will help you better understand your dog's motivations. Study up on genetic history in dogs and certain breeds. It explains why some dogs love hunting, digging, or are more prone to protectiveness.
It may be helpful to know what your dog is or is mixed with, to get a better idea of his genetic disposition (what that breed was initially used for), which will help you better understand your dog's motivations. Study up on genetic history in dogs and certain breeds. It explains why some dogs love hunting, digging, or are more prone to protectiveness.
Popular Service Dog Breeds
- Boxers - First dog to be used as a guide dog. After World War 1, several veterans were blind from exposure to gas. The dogs that were previously trained as war dogs, the Boxer, were re-purposed as guide dogs. Today they are still used by some people, but may not be the best choice because most of them drool a lot! This means you'll need to be prepared to carry extra napkins & clean up after your dog when out in public.
- Golden Retrievers - Reputation for being friendly, easy to train, and loyal. Natural retrieve drive makes them easy to teach "bring it". They can have high energy though. Also, they require constant grooming, which could be difficult depending on your disability.
- Labrador Retrievers - Like the Golden, this breed is friendly, easy to train, and has that natural retrieve drive that makes them easy to teach "bring it". This breed is short hair, but sheds like a fur bomb and can have problems with oily coats.
- Dobermans
- Rottweilers
- Pit Bulls/American Bulldog - Do not believe the stereotype. This breed can be extremely loyal, friendly, and make good working dogs. They are built right for mobility assistance, being large and sturdy.
- Whippet or Greyhound
- German Shepherd - Classic working dog choice. They do have double coats, and require extra grooming, so keep that in mind. This breed is very intelligent and enjoys having a job to do.
- Border Collie - Intelligent. Can be high energy though. Needs a job to do.
- Australian Shepherd - Very smart, Medium sized, and eager to please & work.
- Great Dane - Very large breed, which makes them good for mobility. However, they are so large that it is hard to be discreet in public. It is almost like walking around with a mini horse. This is a breed that needs strong leadership.
- Poodle