Labrador Retrievers are very popular Guide Dogs
Labradors are excellent Guide Dogs and are used all over the world
Labrador Retrievers are renowned sporting dogs; however, they are also first class guide dogs. This is hardly surprising when you take their intelligence and temperament into consideration.
Being easy to train, Labradors were quick to adapt to a social life surrounded by humans. Earlier on in their history labs were solely used as sporting dogs but their kind nature and enthusiasm won the hearts of their owners.
Guide Dogs were initially German Shepherds but once the Labrador Retriever’s reputation grew many people preferred the lab to the German shepherd.
Once a Labrador is trained accordingly he can guide his owner around streets and shops. This is a special gift for both dog and owner as it allows the owner the opportunity to be mobile and enjoy the outdoors with his best friend!
The history of dogs in this field goes back to the 1920’s in Switzerland. It was started by Mrs. Dorothy Eustis and she used German shepherd females. After a while Labrador retrievers and golden retrievers were introduced to the training. Nowadays about 70% of guide dogs in Great Britain are Labradors.
Labrador Retrievers have excelled in this field and have shown a great transition from sporting dog to working dog. These wonderful dogs are easy to train, they have a great temperament, get along exceedingly well with people and are loyal.
Perhaps, most importantly, Labradors are also very instinctive when it comes to sensing danger. From personal experiences I have found that my lab waits on the pavement until the roads are clear and is also very careful when around loud machinery. She really does know when to wait until the danger has passed!
