What breeds of dog are used as service dogs?

Answer 1

This is a very complex question. Traditional breeds for service dogs have been German Shepherds (GSD), Labradors, and Golden Retrievers. But nowadays the use of unusual breeds has exploded. Mastiffs are used for mobility work. Chihuahuas are used for diabetic or seizure alert dogs. If the dog has the temperment, skills, and willingness to work; almost any breed could do certain jobs. A corgi wouldn't work out for mobility work but could work as a hearing dog. Breeds like pugs and bulldogs don't always make the best of service dogs to the pushed in noses-this leads to difficult breathing while walking and a shorter working life. While toy breeds can do some service dog jobs, they are not often taken seriously by store employees and the public, especially if dressed up like someone's child.

Smaller breeds are being used by more disabled people on a fixed income as they eat less and can live happier in a smaller home. A cocker spaniel can alert to a sound just as well as a labrador.

Bully breeds, dobermans, and rottweilers are used as service dogs. This can caused access problems in areas with breed specific legisislation (BSL) aka breed bans. Some cities require service dogs of a banned breed to be muzzled in public. Or you may not be able to purchase a banned breed if you live within city limits.

Answer 2

Assistance or service dogs help the disabled. There are many kinds of assistance dogs, almost as many as there are kinds of disabilities.

The most common are guide dogs for the blind, followed by hearing dogs for the deaf. Guide dogs are typically German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, or Golden Retrievers. Hearing dogs are typically smaller, more active dogs, such as Border Collies, or mixed-breeds.

Then there are mobility dogs for the physically disabled who pick up dropped items, open and close doors, and turn on lights among other things. There are also dogs that assist with medical-related disabilities, such as neurological, developmental, psychiatric, and diabetic disabilities.

Service dogs are about any breed you can imagine, depending on what job they perform. Larger dogs are used to pull wheel chairs, while smaller dogs might be more convenient for medical alert purposes. It all depends on the specific needs of the person with a disability.

Answer 3

Some agencies collect corporate donations to pay for the dogs they train. Other than that there is no grants or funding that I know of to help pay for getting a service dog. Many people have been successful with private fundraising though. It is interesting to note that the costs associated with getting and maintaining a service dog is often deductible as a medical expense.
Check with your local Vocational Rehabilitation office for funding. Also look for agencies that do not require payment for a service dog. The only expense is travel to the agency for the two weeks training and a place to stay or food while there. Many agencies have dorms and provide meals as well.