Dos and Don’ts of Guide Dog Etiquette

The following are a few considerations to keep in mind when meeting a person who uses a guide dog:

Dos

• Do allow the dog to concentrate and perform for the safety of its handler.
• Do understand that, for safety reasons, some blind or visually impaired people may not reveal their guide dog’s name.
• Do allow the handler to give the dog commands.
• Do assist the handler, upon his or her request, but always ask before you attempt to help.
• Do walk on the handler’s right side, several paces behind or in front of him or her.
• Do ask if the handler needs your assistance. If so, offer your left arm.
• Do allow the dog to rest undisturbed and to concentrate on its job.

Don’ts

• Don’t touch, pet, or feed a guide dog while it is wearing its working harness.
• Don’t call the dog by its name.
• Don’t try to take control in situations unfamiliar to the dog or its handler.
• Don’t give the dog commands.
• Don’t walk on the dog’s left side, as it may become distracted or confused.
• Don’t attempt to grab or steer the handler while the dog is guiding him or her, and don’t attempt to hold the dog’s harness.
• Don’t allow children to tease or abuse the dog.
• Don’t allow other pets to challenge or intimidate a guide dog.