BC & Alberta Guide Dogs Services

What We Do

Our Starting Point - The Breeding Program

BC and Alberta Guide Dog Services maintains an in-house breeding program. By only training dogs that we have bred ourselves, we know the genetic history of each dog, which is vital to our ability to produce healthy guide dogs. 

Learn more about our Breeding Program.

Early Education - The Puppy Raising Program

All of our puppies are raised in the homes of volunteer Puppy Raisers rather than in kennels. Volunteer Puppy Raisers prepare our dogs for advanced training by teaching them basic obedience skills and by socializing our puppies so that they are comfortable in public spaces.

Learn more about our Puppy Raising Program.

Professional Canine Education - The Training Program

At approximately 15 months of age, the dogs enter advanced training, and work with a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor. This advanced training period takes approximately 4 months.

Learn more about our Advanced Training Program.

Client Training - Adult Classes

Since 1998, we have been commited to providing domiciliary (in-home) training. Rather than have the blind/visually-impaired person travel to our location, our Guide Dog Mobility Instructors travel to the person's home with the dog, so that the team can train on familiar routes.  The training can be completed in approximately 3 weeks.

Learn more about our Adult Program.

Client Training - Youth Classes

When training youth clients (aged 13-18), BC and Alberta Guide Dog Services also works closely with the youth's network of supporters (e.g family, school staff) to create a positive educational experience.

Learn more about our Youth Training Program.  

Post Graduation - Aftercare Services

We provide aftercare services to our clients through three programs. First, post-class aftercare is provided three months after graduation. Second, annual aftercare takes place with each client for the working life of the dog (usually 8 years). Third, priority aftercare is provided as requested by our clients.