| Dogs that provide mobility and independence | | | | with a foster family one or two years. These |
| for a blind person come in a variety of | | | | families give love and support, and teach |
| shapes and sizes. These dogs provide more | | | | fundamental manners and social skills. Once |
| than simply eyes for those who are blind. | | | | the dog reaches maturity, he returns to the |
| They become their companion, protector, and | | | | sponsoring organization to begin formal |
| guide.The majority of guide dogs are German | | | | training and evaluation. Training is |
| Shepherds, but there are also many Golden and | | | | intensive and encompasses all circumstances |
| Labrador Retrievers. Training for their | | | | that the dog might come across in the |
| career starts when they are just a few | | | | day-to-day work of guiding his blind or |
| months. During this time, they are placed | | | | visually impaired partner. |