What are the best Breeds for Service Dogs?
When you think of a service dog, you probably think of a Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever or a German Shepherd, but did you know that any breed can qualify as a service dog? A good service dog will be smart, well-tempered, easy to train and calm. Service dogs must be attentive, responsive to their handler’s needs and un-phased by traffic, loud noises, crowds and other dogs. These are the key qualities that make a great service dog.
We’ve rounded up the top 10 breeds for service dogs based on a number of different qualities. No matter what the breed, proper training, and a great relationship between the dog and handler are key in order for a breed to become a successful service dog.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are highly intelligent, easy-going, friendly, devoted and eager to please, making them one of the most ideal service dogs for all types of disabilities and impairments.
Golden Retriever
Similar to Labrador Retriever’s Golden Retriever’s are extremely well tempered and eager to please. Golden Retriever’s are quite active, making them an ideal breed for individuals on the go.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are one of the most loyal breeds around. In addition to being the K9 unit of choice for police forces and militaries across the globe, Shepherds are well suited as service dogs and are eager to assist their handlers with a variety of disabilities.
Poodle
Known for their intelligence and signature style, Poodles have a keen sense for detecting allergens, which can be life saving for those dealing with anaphylactic allergies. This goes for miniature and toy poodles weighing as little as 4 pounds to large standard poodles coming in at 70 pounds.
Great Dane
This larger than life breed has more bark than bite. Great Danes are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them perfect for psychiatric support services.
Another hyper intelligent breed, Collies are often trained as service dogs to sense impending seizures, making them the ideal dog to assist epileptic patients. Collies are calm and cheerful but do require regular grooming which may be a drawback for handlers who suffer from physical disabilities.
One doesn’t often think of Pomeranian’s when they think of service dogs, but they happen to be well suited at identifying symptoms and complications associated with diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. Since they are so small, they may be well suited for individuals who are tight on space.
Bernese Mountain Dog
This working breed is known for its cool, calm and laid-back attitude. Their strength makes them ideal for those in wheelchairs, who may need assistance getting out of a tight spot, or who need a nudge up a hill. Bernese Mountain Dogs were bread to carry, and are the ideal breed for carrying heavy loads and fetching items.
American Staffordshire Terrier
AmStaffs are well natured and possesses a ton of confidence. With their trainability and good temperament, AmStaffs are jacks-of-all trades in the service dog world.
Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are loving, calm and loyal, making them perfect service dog companions for those who need extra company. Bloodhounds are also known for their incredible sense of smell, allowing them to detect blood sugar deficiencies in diabetic patients.
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