Many dog breeds can serve as guide dogs, such as Poodles, Labradors, and so on. In fact, when looking at the life of a guide dog, it is not only about guiding the blind. During other stages beyond guiding, guide dogs also need people’s care. So, how many stages can a normal guide dog’s life be divided into?

　　Stage One: Foster Period

　　After the puppy is born for 45 days, it is sent to a caring volunteer family for fostering. This allows the puppy to adapt to family life and social environments while learning how to interact with people, letting the puppy know that humans are trustworthy friends. During this stage, puppies should continuously be exposed to new things, learn simple obedience commands, and gradually undergo socialization training.

　　Stage Two: Training Period

　　When the puppy reaches 12-14 months old, it is sent back to the base for six months of professional skill training. Once qualified, it will undergo 3-4 weeks of joint training with a visually impaired person.

　　Stage Three: Service Period

　　Qualified guide dogs are provided free of charge to suitable visually impaired users, and the service period lasts 8–10 years.

　　Stage Four: Retirement Period

　　After the service period ends, guide dogs will be sent to caring volunteer families or back to the base to live out their retirement.

　　If you truly take the time to understand guide dogs, you will find they are indeed very considerate and warm, like guide dog Xiao Q, who is our good helper.