When you think of Service Dogs, what type of dog do you see? The most typical Service Dog breeds are Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Poodles or a cross among those breeds. These breeds are often chosen due to traits common for the breeds. Purpose-bred dogs in our breeding program are typically Labs or Goldens, or a cross of the two breeds.
While these are the most typical breeds used as working dogs, any breed of dog can become a Service Dog – including mixed breeds – if they have the right temperament.
Most Common Service Dog Breeds
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are highly friendly and sociable and are typically eager to please humans. Because they can be attentive to their owner’s needs, they can be ideal for training specialized task-work. Physically, they are athletic and energetic, which makes them able to keep up with the needs of their handlers.
Golden Retriever
Like Labs, Golden Retrievers have a sociable and easy-going temperament. Their eagerness to please makes them ideal candidates for Service Dog training. They are also an active breed, with plenty of energy to keep up with their handlers.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds were the very first dogs used for Guide Dog work. They are typically quite intelligent and extremely loyal, meaning they can learn many tasks to support people with disabilities. This makes them a popular choice for certain types of Service Dog work.
Poodle
Poodles are often highly trainable and social, meaning they can be trained to perform many types of tasks. Poodles of all sizes and types can be trained to support their handlers. Since their coats tend to have less dander, they can also be a good choice for handlers with dog allergies.
Any breed of dog can be trained as a Service Dog
Dogs for Better Lives trains shelter dogs to become Service Dogs in its From Shelter to Service Dog Program. We choose dogs for our programs based on temperament and personality traits, like confidence, adaptability, and friendliness. Besides selecting dogs for temperament and behavior we also select dogs based on our clients’ needs and ease of public access rights.
Over the years, Dogs for Better Lives has trained dogs of just about every breed – even mystery mutts! These dogs can lead a successful working life as a Service Dog with the right temperament and training. Read more about the ideal personality traits of Service Dogs on our blog.
