Handler and guide dog compatibility

Abstract

Although guide dog schools take a great deal of care when matching a person with a guide dog, not all handler-dog teams are compatible. To facilitate the matching process, 50 handlers, who had used 118 dogs, were interviewed about their expectations and the outcome of the partnership, and the reasons for unsuccessful relationships were identified. Results suggested that most matches were successful and quality of life was improved for most people who used a dog. Around a quarter of the matches were considered unsuccessful, but, interestingly, not all mismatched dogs were returned. Mismatches arose predominantly from problems concerning the dogs' working behaviour followed by the dogs' social/home behaviour. Other findings indicated that the fulfilment of expectations, and compatibility between the handler and the dog were positively associated with better matches. Factors relating to mobility made the biggest contribution to success, but non-work related issues such as companionship and enhancement of social interactions were also significant. These and other factors that appear to be associated with a good outcome will be discussed.