Which breeds of dogs are suitable as guide dogs?

Labradors are the most commonly used breed for guide dog work. They are known for their gentle temperament, intelligence, and work ethic. Their size is also advantageous, being large enough to lead an adult but not so large as to be unwieldy in public places.

Like Labradors, Golden Retrievers are known for their intelligence, friendliness, and strong desire to please, making them excellent guide dogs.

Historically, German Shepherds were among the first breeds used as guide dogs. They are smart, loyal, and protective. However, their size and sometimes protective nature mean they need to be matched carefully with handlers.

Some visually impaired individuals have allergies, and the Poodle's hypoallergenic coat makes this breed a suitable choice. Standard Poodles are intelligent, trainable, and have a good work ethic.

By combining the best traits of Labradors and Golden Retrievers, many guide dog programs have found that this mix often produces excellent guide dogs.

While less common, Flat-Coated Retrievers share many of the positive traits of Labradors and Golden Retrievers, making them suitable for guide work.

In some European countries, Boxers have been trained as guide dogs due to their intelligence and protective nature. However, they are not as commonly used in this role as the breeds mentioned above.