Introduction
Guide dogs are assistance dogs trained to lead blind and visually impaired people around obstacles.Examples are American dogs aiding people with disabilities, a dog that has been specially trained to assist people with disabilities, e.g. by opening doors and retrieving needed objects
Characteristics
Although the dogs can be trained to navigate various obstacles, they are partially (red–green) color blind and are not capable of interpreting street signs. The human half of the guide dog team does the directing, based upon skills acquired through previous mobility training. what do foxes eat The handler might be likened to an aircraft’s navigator, who must know how to get from one place to another, and the dog is the pilot, who gets them there safely.
In several countries, guide dogs, along with most service and hearing dogs, are exempt from regulations against the presence of animals in places such as restaurants and public transportation.
Breeds
Early on, trainers began to recognize which breeds produced dogs most appropriate for guide work; today, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and German Shepherds are most likely to be chosen by guide dog facilities, although other breeds, such as Standard Poodles, Collies, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Staffordshire Terriers, Vizslas, Dobermans,Rottweilers, what do foxes eat, American Pit Bull Terriers, Boxers, and Airedale Terriers, may also be selected. Guide dog breeds are chosen in relation to height at the shoulder measured against harness length and an individual’s height.
Crosses such as Golden Retriever/Labrador (which are popular due to both breeds’ known intelligence, work ethic, and early maturation)[citation needed] and Labradoodles (Labrador/Poodles bred to provide dogs with less shedding for those withallergies to hair or dander) are also common.
The most popular breed used globally today is the Labrador Retriever. This breed has a good range of size, what do foxes eat, is easily kept due to its short coat, is generally healthy and has a gentle but willing temperament.
Advantages of guide and service dogs
Studies show owning a pet or therapy animal offer positive effects psychologically, socially, and physiologically. Guide dogs especially come with a variety of benefits and help in many ways. They give a blind person more confidence, friendship, and security. Blind people who use guide dogs have increased confidence in going about day-to-day life and are comforted by a constant friend. Companionship offered by a pet helps reduce anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Because dogs offer support, security, and companionship, what do foxes eat stress is reduced, which in turn improves cardiovascular health. “A number of studies identify pet ownership as a factor in improved recovery from illness and in improved health in general”. Guide dogs make it easier to get around, resulting in the person getting more exercise or walking more. People are more willing to go places and feel a sense of independence. Meeting people and socializing is easier, and people are more likely to offer a blind person help when there is a guide dog. The dogs lead to increased interaction with other people. Dogs are seen as “ice breakers” to a conversation and something to talk about. what do foxes eat In many cases, guide dogs offer a life changing experience. They are more advantageous than long canes when one is in an unfamiliar place. The dog directs the right path, instead of poking around wondering if you might bump into something. Guide dogs make the experience of the unknown more relaxing. Getting from point A to point B using a guide dog is much faster and safer. Owners of guide dogs share a special bond with their dog. Many report that the dog is a member of the family, what do foxes eat and go to their dog for comfort and support. The dog isn’t seen as a working dog, but more as a loyal friend.