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Meet Guide Dogs for the Blind

More than an industry-leading guide dog school.

A man with a guide dog stands in front of a colorful sunburst mural that reads "Think Happy Thoughts." A man with a guide dog stands in front of a colorful sunburst mural that reads "Think Happy Thoughts."

At Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB), we believe that everyone deserves to move through the world safely and confidently—to live the life they want to live. Our passionate community employs innovative practices to create life-changing partnerships. And, we advocate for the policy reforms that change how the world views blindness and disability. Because when everyone is empowered to participate, our communities are stronger.

With world-class client services and a robust network of instructors, puppy raisers, donors, and volunteers, we prepare highly qualified guide dogs and K9 Buddy dogs, provide guide dog readiness skills, and offer youth programs to empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired. GDB not only improves mobility for our clients, we further inclusion.

As the largest guide dog school in North America, more than 16,000 guide dog teams have graduated from GDB from across the U.S. and Canada since our founding in 1942. All of our services are provided free of charge, including personalized training and ongoing support, plus financial assistance for veterinary care, if needed. Our work is made possible by the generous support of our donors and volunteers; we receive no government funding.

Guide Dogs for the Blind is an accredited member of the International Guide Dog Federation.

Nonprofit Status

Guide Dogs for the Blind is a non-profit, charitable organization under the provisions of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (tax ID #94-1196195). Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

Fact Sheet

Download the fact sheet about Guide Dogs for the Blind.

A smiling young woman kneels next to her guide dog who is giving her a kiss.

Harnessing the Power of Partnership

Guide Dogs for the Blind's Mission
Five people and their guide dogs pose for a portrait, circa 1942.

Guide Dogs for the Blind's beginnings

Guide Dogs for the Blind's History

IN CANADA

A married couple sit on a bench with a large "Toronto" sign in the background; the people both have guide dogs at their sides.

Canadian donors can support Guide Dogs for the Blind through Guide Dogs for the Blind International (GDB’s registered charity in Canada).