A Labrador retriever is a trusted service dog. They are intelligent and highly trainable dogs. Their loving nature, loyalty, physical strength and working ability make them excellent for many dog roles.
Labradors have natural motivation to work for their owners and make them happy. That’s why they make good bonds with their owners. They are good learners and easily adapt new skills.
Their size is an advantage, with a weight of around 50 to 70 pounds. But the strength they have, helps them a lot in service work.
History Of Labrador Retrievers As Service Dogs
Germany and the United States first used Labradors as service dogs. In the 1970s, the use of labradors expanded in medical alert. And now today, they are the most used breed to work as service dogs.
Types Of Service Work Labrador Retrievers Perform
Following are the service works performs by labradors :
- Guide Dogs
- Hearing Dogs
- Mobility Assistance Dogs
- Medical Alert Dogs
- Psychiatric Service Dogs
- Autism Assistance Dogs
Training Period For Labrador Retriever Service Dogs
Training process mainly depends on what type of service you want from a labrador. Like you want them as a guide dog, hearing dog etc. Average time period for their training is 1 – 2 years.
Difference Between Service Dogs And Emotional Support Animals
Service dogs and emotional support animals has the major difference :
Service Dogs
These dogs are used to perform specific tasks. Some tasks are guiding the blind person and alerting the deaf etc.
Emotional Support Animals
Through their presence, they offer emotional support. And they do not specifically train for tasks.
Cost And Availability
Cost of a labrador retriever service dog is approximately $20,000 to $45,000. Their training cost increases the price, making it higher.
However, some nonprofit organizations also provide service dogs at very low prices. We recommend you to buy from Paws With a Cause.
Are Service Dogs Allowed In Labs?
Yes, service dogs are allowed in laboratories. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) allows disabled people to take their service dogs into both public and private spaces (like labs).
The service dog must be fully trained and under the control of the owner. Both owner and dog take precautionary measures in lab.
