The IFT or In-For-Training step is an important event for puppy raisers. Along with the emotions of parting with the dog you have raised, there is the anticipation of future successes. As a puppy raiser, you have done your part; now it is up to your pup and its trainer to take the next steps along the path to becoming a guide dog. Only those dogs showing the self-confidence and composure necessary for guide work are assigned to undergo the rigors of guide dog training. These dogs have shown enthusiasm and desire to undertake the tasks of working in harness. The decision on whether a dog will proceed to training is made after review of previous temperament reports and the IFT test for training aptitude. The IFT test provides valuable information about the dog’s temperament in a controlled setting, while adapting to strange people in an unfamiliar environment. Whereas some dogs are consistent in their responses, others become worried and stressed during the IFT test. It would be unfair to force an unwilling dog into guide dog training; this is why Guiding Eyes says that each dog “chooses its own career”.

In addition, the Guiding Eyes vets perform a thorough medical screening of each dog. Hip and elbow radiographs are evaluated for freedom from joint disease; eyes, heart and other body systems are scrutinized; and any health problems that have arisen in the past are assessed. The health criteria are stringent. Any health issue that may pose a future maintenance issue (such as chronic medications or special food requirements) or risk shortening the working life of a guide dog is cause for release from guide dog training.

IFT Test Day

All puppy raisers are welcome to attend an IFT test, either on the day their dog is tested, or on any other test date if you want to learn more about the process before your dog’s IFT date. Raisers are able to watch the test from within the testing room. After the test, raisers have the opportunity to spend a few minutes with their dog and speak with a member of the guiding Eyes staff to answer any questions and take pictures if desired.  A tour of the kennel facility is offered so raisers can see where their dog will be spending the next few months of his/her life and learn about our kennel enrichment programs. 

Results of IFT Test

Your Region Coordinator or Region Helper will be in touch with you the day of the IFT test. There are 5 possible outcomes from the IFT test:

• Training Your dog passed the IFT screening test and will stay at the Training School. Medical screening and assignment to an instructor will occur over the next few weeks.
• Breeder evaluation Exceptional qualities were identified and your dog will stay at the CDC Breeding kennel for medical screening and further temperament evaluations.
• Further evaluation Additional temperament evaluations will be done at the CDC or Training School to determine the best career path for your dog. Your Region Manager will be in touch as soon as more information is available. Sometimes dogs with special training needs are placed with another guide dog/service dog school. Some dogs are retained in the Guiding Eyes training program as dogs for clients with Special Needs.
• Release/alternate career Your dog has temperament and/or health issues that will prevent your dog from becoming a guide dog. Your dog may be suited for an alternative career such as detection work or as a cherished family pet (see Public Adoption.)
• Puppy program Occasionally there are too many dogs available for training, and raisers are asked if they can keep their dog for an additional month or so until the next group of instructors is available. This option allows the dog to stay in a familiar environment and avoids the stresses of lengthy, non-productive kennel time. Alternately, some dogs are deemed to be potentially suitable for training, but need additional time with a puppy raiser to mature and be able to make the most of guide dog training.