Guide dogs for the blind in Germany are more than just pets; they are indispensable helpers that give people with visual impairments a great deal of independence and mobility. This article looks at the development of guide dogs for the blind in Germany, from their historical beginnings to current training standards and challenges.
Historical roots
The history of guide dogs for the blind in Germany goes back more than 100 years. In August 1916, the world's first school for guide dogs was founded in Oldenburg, primarily in response to the increasing number of people blinded during the First World War. Just one year later, 86 dogs had completed their training, and by 1928 this number had risen to around 5,000.
Current situation
Today, there are around 2,000 guide dogs for the blind in service. This number is relatively low compared to early history, which points to challenges such as a lack of uniform training standards, complex approval procedures and financial bottlenecks.
Training as a guide dog for the blind
The training of a guide dog for the blind begins at around 15 months of age and includes a thorough health check and a character test. During their training, the dogs learn around 40 commands and are trained to recognize dangers and use their senses, especially their vision. A special focus is placed on training the dogs as a unit with their owners. The training concludes with a demanding test, the so-called blind walk, which tests the dog's abilities under real-life conditions.
Challenges and solutions
The biggest challenges in the training of guide dogs for the blind in Germany include the lack of a uniform job description for trainers, different quality standards and financial restrictions. These problems are addressed by organizations such as the Association of German Guide Dogs for the Blind which is committed to higher standards and better training conditions. Cooperation with the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) ensures that training is carried out according to internationally recognized standards.
Recommendation: The documentary "Pick of the Litter"
For a deeper understanding of this topic, the documentary "Pick of the Litter" is a recommended resource. The film follows the journey of five puppies on their way to becoming guide dogs and offers insights into the challenges and successes of this special training.
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