Each year on 4 January, we mark World Braille Day, honouring the legacy of Louis Braille and the importance of accessible communication. It’s also a powerful moment to shine a light on another kind of guidance—dogs who help people navigate the world, one step at a time.

What Do Guide Dogs Do?

Guide dogs are expertly trained to support people with visual impairments. They help their handlers avoid obstacles, navigate kerbs, locate doors and crossings, and travel safely. But beyond their technical skill, they offer companionship, confidence and freedom.

The Training Behind the Brilliance

Becoming a guide dog isn’t easy. Dogs begin training as young as 6 weeks old and continue through adolescence. According to veterinary behaviourist Dr Robert Hewson:

“These dogs undergo months of socialisation and task training. They must demonstrate not just obedience, but intelligent disobedience—knowing when to override a command for safety.”

Breeds That Excel as Guide Dogs

Labradors, Golden Retrievers and their crosses are often selected due to their temperament, trainability and steady pace. However, any dog with patience, intelligence and calm confidence can shine in the role.

Nutrition Fuels Performance

Guide dogs work hard and need dependable nutrition to stay alert, active and focused. At Poppy’s Picnic, our naturally balanced raw meals are made with high-quality protein and vegetables, providing sustained energy and joint support—ideal for dogs with physically demanding tasks.

“Working dogs benefit from nutrient-dense meals that support stamina and joint health. Raw food, when correctly balanced, is an excellent choice.”

How You Can Support Guide Dogs

• Raise awareness and share stories of service dogs
• Donate to organisations that train and place guide dogs
• Become a puppy socialiser or short-term foster carer

A Salute to Canine Heroes

Today, and every day, we honour the remarkable dogs who make independence possible. Their loyalty, skill and heart help change lives—and they do it all with a wagging tail.

Poppy’s Picnic proudly supports the health of all dogs—from sleepy sofa companions to full-time working heroes. Our meals are FEDIAF-compliant, handcrafted in the UK, and loved by thousands of devoted dogs (and their people).