Blind dogs

[deepseadiver]

We were having a discussion in the pub today .It was to do with picking up dog poo.How does a blind person with a dog cope with this.There were lots of scenarios as you can imagine!

[jules77]

hmmmm good question. But they would obviously know if the dog stops to do something, and not everyone with a blind dog is totally blind. The dogs may be trained to only do it in their own garden, where perhaps a member of the family or home help comes in to clear it up? I have no idea really, just guessing.

[wildwood]

I believe the dogs are trained not to defacate when in the working jacket and have regular toilet times. When away from home they will void on command but only when on a long leash.(not working).

[deepseadiver]

Thanks folks..

[judypark]

willdwood is correct, I puppy walk Guide dogs, and we start them at 6 weeks. They have a small area outside, preferably paved, that they are allowed to use as a toilet. When the pup has performed they are praised with the words "be busy" for a wee and "big busy" for the other. Within weeks they are programmed to go on demand. This is done before the dog leaves the house so avoiding any accidents. The dog will eventually go on the same paving slab. All but the stupidest dog can easily learn this. They seem to automatically know not to defacate in harness, probably because they have to concentrate so hard when working there is no time for sniffing where other dogs have been. Any dog who was unreliable with this requirement would not be considered as a working dog .