The first guide dogs were German Shepherds. Today Golden Retrievers, Labradors, as well as German Shepherds, lead the pack. It takes a special kind of animal to do this job.
Although the three breeds mentioned are the most popular, there are others that make the grade. Collies, Vizslas, and Dobermans, as well as cross breeds such Labradoodles are used to provide those sensitive to pet dander with a suitable partner.

The first training schools in the world teaching guide dogs everything they need to know were established in Germany around the turn of the 20th century. Many veterans who were blinded in combat during the first World War used guide dogs to enhance their mobility and quality of life. In 1929 the idea was brought to the United States with the first training company, The Seeing Eye, located in Morristown, New Jersey, followed by Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael, CA, thirteen years later.

Seeing Eye Dogs, or guide dogs are used to lead those who are visually impaired (legally blind) or have lost the ability to hear(deaf). You may see a man or woman walking to class, work, or even the store wielding a dog, sometimes a white stick, wearing sunglasses. Guide dogs make the lives of these individuals much more maneuverable.
They help alert their owners of moving cars or walking hindrances.

These dogs are exempt from the notices in restaurants or subways disallowing canines and other animals.