Final answer:
Seeing Eye dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds, receive extensive training from foster families and professional instructors to assist the blind or visually impaired. They undergo a stringent selection process, including a final exam in New York City, with ongoing reinforcement post-matching. Certified dogs have documentation verifying their training, health, and behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
Seeing Eye Dogs and Their Training
Commonly used breeds for Seeing Eye dogs include Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds due to their intelligence, temperament, and size. These dogs go through rigorous training before being matched with a person who is blind or visually impaired. Initially, a puppy is raised by a foster family that teaches it basic behavior and socialization. When the dog is between 13 and 19 months old, it undergoes four months of intensive training with a professional instructor at a Seeing Eye campus. This includes passing a challenging final exam which culminates in navigating New York City. Following this, about 75% of the dogs qualify and are paired with their new owners, who then engage in an additional 25 days of collaborative training on campus with the dog and instructor. Continuing education remains essential, with ongoing reinforcement from the owner and support from the training staff, including telephone consultations and home visits when necessary.
The process of training and the roles these dogs fulfill highlight their discipline, obedience, and aptitude, differentiating them from pets and emotional support animals. Certified dogs have verification of their health, behavior, and training, which allows them to travel with their owners, including on airlines where specific documentation is required.