Buddy dogs are dogs that have been given a career change because life as a guide dog wasn’t quite right for them. This means they may have health or behavioural difficulties such as a skin condition, anxiety or problems with their joints. If they do, we’ll give you the right support to manage it but remember that no dog is ‘perfect’.

Buddy dogs can be a huge benefit to your child and family, but they also need plenty of care and commitment throughout their lives – typically around 10-14 years. It’s also worth thinking about whether you’ll have the energy to look after a big dog.

The time it takes to be matched and paired up with a buddy dog depends on the circumstances of each child and their family – and whether we have the right dog available, of course.

A buddy dog will definitely help your child feel more keen and confident to get out and about, but they shouldn’t be used as a mobility aid or sighted guide.

No – buddy dogs don’t have the same legal access rights as guide dogs, so they may not be allowed in.