Assistance dogs are faithful and highly trained four-legged friends who help people with physical or mental impairments to lead independent and autonomous lives. These special dogs are specifically trained to meet individual needs and assist their human partner with everyday tasks.
There are different types of assistance dogs, each tailored to specific tasks and needs. Some assistance dogs are trained to support people with physical disabilities by helping them get around, pick up objects or open doors. They can also act as a prop to give their owner stability when walking or to warn them in the event of a fall.
Other assistance dogs are specifically trained to accompany people with visual impairments. These so-called guide dogs lead their owners safely through road traffic by recognising obstacles, observing traffic light signals and anticipating dangerous situations. They are an indispensable partner for people who have lost their sight or have a visual impairment.
There are also assistance dogs that support people with mental illnesses such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism or anxiety disorders. These dogs are trained to offer emotional support by providing their owners with calm and security in stressful situations. They can, for example, recognise signs of anxiety or panic attacks and provide reassurance by gently touching or cuddling.
Training assistance dogs requires a lot of time, patience and expertise. Professional trainers work intensively with the dogs to teach them the necessary skills. In doing so, positive strengthening and reward training are given preference. The dogs are carefully selected to ensure they have the right qualities and character to best serve their human partners.
People who are accompanied by an assistance dog see these animals as more than just helpers in everyday life. They are close companions and loyal partners who offer them trust, security and emotional support. Assistance dogs enable their owners to lead more independent lives and participate in social life by overcoming obstacles and breaking down barriers.
