The most common breeds are Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers.

- a high level of willingness to work; - a strong desire to please the user; - a quiet and calm disposition; - a high level of initiative; - a low level of distraction from its work; and - a high level of concentration while working.

Most dogs begin their formal training between twelve and eighteen months of age.

It varies from dog to dog, approximately five to eight months.

The training class runs for approximately one month. During this time, the clients stay in residence at our Training Centre.

Most Guide Dogs work for a period of approximately eight years.

In many instances, the Guide Dog user wishes to and is able to keep the retired Guide Dog. If however, this is not possible, CGDB is always able to find a suitable and loving home for the dog.

No. The decision and responsibility to cross a road lies solely with the Guide Dog user. The Guide Dog user is taught how and where to cross safely.

If the dog is in harness, it is working and should not be distracted. The dog may be petted only after permission has been granted by the Guide Dog user.

Yes, when not working, just like a house pet.

No. The Guide Dog is fed only at meal times so that it never learns to scavenge. This also helps to monitor the dog's general health and keep it in very good condition for its work.

The user leases the Guide Dog for $1.00 from Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind. The user is responsible for the care, feeding and veterinary costs.

The organization is funded almost solely from donations made by individuals, corporations, service clubs, Foundations and from proceeds raised at events.