Raise a Puppy
Raising a Future Leader Dog won’t only change someone else’s life.
It will change yours.
Do you love dogs? Are you ready to make a real difference? If you said "yes" to both these questions, raising a Future Leader Dog may be the right opportunity for you.
Puppy raisers are the backbone of our guide dog program. They give 12 to 15 months of their time, energy and love to raise a puppy for Leader Dog. Through daily care and training, puppy raisers build the foundation our puppies need to become a trusted guide dog for someone who is blind.
Puppy raising is the adventure of a lifetime, and every adventure comes with challenges and rewards. We’re here to help.
You don't need any previous experience raising a puppy to become a puppy raiser. We'll help you every step of the way. The Leader Dog puppy raising community is also a great source of support—no matter what your situation is, your fellow raisers are ready to share stories, suggestions and the latest photos of their growing puppies.
Info Sessions
We offer free, hybrid (in-person and virtual) info sessions for people interested in raising a puppy. Info sessions are held the first Wednesday of every month from 6 – 7 p.m. EDT. If you'd like to hear from our team about what being a puppy raiser is like, please join us for an upcoming session! We'll cover this volunteer experience in detail, and you are welcome to ask questions.
The in person info session will take place in the canine center (the building with the green roof) at Leader Dogs for the Blind - 1039 S. Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, MI. Please note, the parking lot entrance is off Avon Rd. In person attendees will have the opportunity to take a tour of the facility after the session.