Guide Dogs for the Blind San Diego Club

We are a group of trained volunteers based in San Diego, California, dedicated to raising and supporting future guide dogs. We welcome puppies into our homes and teach basic obedience, house manners, and socialization skills that prepare them for formal guide dog training. Our goal is to help raise confident, well-prepared dogs who will one day support a person’s independence and mobility.

Our club is built on mutual support, shared learning, and a strong sense of community. By working together, we create a positive and encouraging environment that helps each puppy reach their full potential. It takes a team to raise a guide dog, and we would love for you to be part of ours!

A group of 9 adults, 2 children and their 5 dogs pose with the Guide Dogs for the Blind National Headquarters sign in front of the facility.

Two dogs sit at attention. The yellow lab is wearing a green puppy in training vest. The golden retriever is wearing a blue bandana that reads "Breeder Dog."

What does our puppy-raising club do?
Our club supports Guide Dogs for the Blind by raising and training puppies during their first year to year and a half of life. We help them learn basic obedience, good manners, and how to behave calmly and confidently in public, playing a crucial role in preparing puppies for formal guide dog training.
Who can join the club?
Membership is open to anyone interested in volunteering, learning about guide dogs, and supporting puppy raising. Youth ages 9-18 may participate with a parent or guardian. No prior dog experience is required—training, resources, and ongoing support are provided to help both puppy raisers and their puppies succeed.
Are puppies in training allowed in public places?
In most cases, guide dog puppies in training are legally permitted in many public places when accompanied by an approved puppy raiser and wearing their official vest.
Can I still be involved even if I can’t raise a puppy?
Yes! Club members can still be involved by volunteering at events, assisting puppy raisers, fundraising, educating others about guide dogs, or serving as a puppy sitter. There are many meaningful ways to support the club, even if you are not able to raise a puppy yourself.
Are expenses covered?
Guide Dogs for the Blind covers veterinary care and essential materials. Puppy raisers provide daily care, time, and love. Fundraising by the club also supports the program.

Who can join the club?

Are puppies in training allowed in public places?

In most cases, guide dog puppies in training are legally permitted in many public places when accompanied by an approved puppy raiser and wearing their official vest.

Can I still be involved even if I can’t raise a puppy?

Yes! Club members can still be involved by volunteering at events, assisting puppy raisers, fundraising, educating others about guide dogs, or serving as a puppy sitter. There are many meaningful ways to support the club, even if you are not able to raise a puppy yourself.

Are expenses covered?

Guide Dogs for the Blind covers veterinary care and essential materials. Puppy raisers provide daily care, time, and love. Fundraising by the club also supports the program.