Here's why this age range is typical:
* Physical demands: Guide dog work is physically demanding, requiring good stamina, mobility, and eyesight. As dogs age, they may experience joint pain, declining eyesight, and decreased energy, making it harder to perform their duties safely.
* Mental decline: While not as noticeable as physical changes, mental decline can also occur in older dogs, leading to confusion, decreased attention span, and difficulty learning new tasks.
* Safety: The safety of both the handler and the dog is paramount. A dog that can no longer perform its duties safely needs to be retired to ensure their well-being.
It's important to remember that these are just guidelines. Some guide dogs may retire earlier due to health issues, while others may remain active longer if they're in good health.
After retirement, many guide dogs enjoy a happy, fulfilling life as loving pets.