What Is Puppy Raising?

Have you ever heard of the phrase "puppy raising" or met someone who called themselves a "puppy raiser"? In case you're not familiar, puppy raisers are volunteers who raise future guide and service dog puppies from around 8 weeks of age until they're ready to begin their official training. Embarking on the journey of raising a guide or service dog puppy is a profoundly rewarding experience that not only transforms the life of the individual receiving the dog but also enriches the life of the raiser. The Guide Dog Foundation offers a comprehensive Puppy Raising Program, inviting passionate volunteers to nurture future assistance dogst that will go on to be life changers. 

The Role of a Puppy Raiser
Puppy Raisers are dedicated volunteers who provide loving homes and essential socialization experiences for puppies destined to become guide or service dogs. Starting at 8-12 weeks old, these puppies are placed with raisers and remain until they are 14-18 months old, at which point they return to our campus to begin formal training. During their time with the raisers, the puppies learn socialization, basic obedience, good house manners, and are exposed to various environments to build confidence and adaptability. 

What Are the Main Objectives for Puppy Raisers?
» Confidence Building: Helping the puppy become comfortable in diverse settings and situations.

» Socialization: Introducing the puppy to different people, animals, and environments to ensure well-rounded behavior.

» Basic Cues: Teaching fundamental commands such as sit, stay, and come.

» House Manners: Establishing appropriate behaviors within the home setting.

» Relieving Routine: Setting a consistent schedule for bathroom breaks.

» Ongoing Reporting: Attending monthly group puppy classes and submitting online behavior reports every two months to track progress.

These objectives are designed to lay a solid foundation for the puppy's future specialized training. 

What Qualifications Are Needed?
No prior dog training experience is necessary to become a Puppy Raiser. The Guide Dog Foundation provides comprehensive support through professional Puppy Advisors who guide volunteers throughout the puppy's upbringing. Additionally, all necessary supplies are provided, and the Foundation covers the cost of veterinary care. Raisers are responsible for purchasing the puppy's food. 

For individuals unable to commit to long-term puppy raising, the Foundation offers alternative programs:

Puppy Camp: Short-term fostering opportunities ranging from a few days to several months, providing the same socialization experiences as full-time raisers.

Co-Raising: Sharing the responsibilities of raising a puppy with another family or individual, allowing for a more manageable commitment.

Weekend Puppy Raising (Prison Puppy Program): Through a collaboration with America's VetDogs, the Foundation runs a Prison Puppy Program where incarcerated individuals assist in raising future assistance dogs during the week. On weekends, volunteers, known as Weekend Puppy Raisers, take the puppies into their homes to expose them to experiences not available in the prison environment. This program operates in several states, including Maryland, Maine, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. 

Our program's flexible options ensure that more volunteers can participate in the program, accommodating various lifestyles and schedules!

Want to Embark on a Life-Changing Journey?

Becoming a Puppy Raiser is more than volunteering; it's a commitment to transforming lives. By providing a nurturing environment and essential training, you play a pivotal role in preparing a puppy for its future as a guide or service dog. The journey is filled with learning, companionship, and the profound satisfaction of contributing to a greater cause.

If you're ready to make a difference and embark on this rewarding path, consider joining the Guide Dog Foundation's Puppy Raising Program. Your dedication and love can help shape the future of someone in need. Learn more!