Guide Dogs Around the World
- operations7108
- Sep 17
- 3 min read
Guide dogs give people who are blind or partially sighted the freedom to move with confidence and independence. While the idea of training dogs to guide began in Europe after the First World War, today these programs exist in many parts of the world, each shaped by local culture, resources, and geography.
In Canada, several well-established organizations train and match guide dogs with handlers. Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind (CGDB), based near Ottawa, has been training dogs since 1984. Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides in Oakville, Ontario, provides not only guide dogs but also service dogs for other disabilities, offering their programs at no cost to clients. In 2017, CNIB launched CNIB Guide Dogs. Another group, BC & Alberta Guide Dogs, supports partnerships in Western Canada. Many smaller initiatives and partnerships also contribute to the training and placement of dogs across the country. Most schools typically train Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Standard Poodles, selected for their calm temperament and intelligence.
In addition to training schools, there are also groups that support people who work with guide dogs. Guide Dog Users of Canada (GDUC) is a national advocacy and peer support organization. They raise public awareness about access rights, help address barriers that guide dog handlers may encounter, and provide direct support to teams. One of their key programs is a wellness fund that helps cover unexpected veterinary expenses, ensuring guide dogs can stay healthy and continue working alongside their handlers.
In the United States, programs like The Seeing Eye and Guide Dogs for the Blind are widely recognized and serve thousands of people each year. Both countries share a strong network of volunteers who raise puppies, donors who support training, and trainers who dedicate years of expertise to building successful teams.
Europe is where guide dog training first took root. Germany pioneered the movement after World War I, and the United Kingdom now runs one of the largest programs in the world, with Guide Dogs UK supporting thousands of partnerships. In Scandinavia, state-funded programs ensure equitable access for those who need guide dogs.
In Asia, programs are still expanding. Japan’s schools are well regarded, while smaller but growing initiatives in China, South Korea, and India face cultural and legislative challenges, such as restrictions on dogs in public spaces.
Elsewhere, Australia and New Zealand operate strong programs with international ties, while countries like Brazil and Mexico in Latin America are developing their own networks. In parts of Africa, pilot programs exist, but resources remain a major barrier.
Across these regions, the mission remains the same: to empower people who are blind or partially sighted with greater independence. Whether in Ottawa, London, Tokyo, or São Paulo, the bond between a guide dog and its handler shows how trust, skill, and community support can change lives.
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Guide Dog Users of Canada is excited to invite you to our next “Sniffing It Out” session, a Zoom event where we feature guide dog schools from across North America to share information about their programs and services. These sessions are designed for current, former, and potential guide dog handlers, as well as anyone interested in learning more.
Date: Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 8 p.m. Atlantic, 7 p.m. Eastern
This month we are pleased to welcome Leader Dogs for the Blind. Representatives will share about their programs, training, and services, followed by a question-and-answer period. The session will run approximately 60–90 minutes.
The call is open to GDUC members and friends. We encourage you to attend, learn, and connect with others in the guide dog community. We look forward to “sniffing it out” with you!
How to Join on Zoom:
ID: 899 1596 4733
Passcode: 275718