Best Mobility Service Dog Breeds

Mobility service dogs do more than help a person with a disability walk or remain upright. They can receive training to perform a variety of tasks related to movement. For instance, they can: 

• Move obstacles out of a disabled person’s path (such as rugs, chairs, or small objects). 
• Obtain items that are out of reach for a person. 
• Retrieve items that fall onto the floor. 
• Hold coats and jackets to help their owner dress or undress. 
• Function as a brace for people who struggle with strength or balance issues. 
• Bark to alert others when their owner falls or collapses. 

To register your dog as a service dog in our national database, click on the link below to get started.

Five Best Mobility Dog Breeds

Mobility dogs must be intelligent, as with all service dogs, but they also have to be an adequate size to qualify as a true mobility service dog. Because people with mobility issues may fall or require a brace, small dogs may not be appropriate. Mobility dogs are often strong and solid dogs, squarely built and full of muscle. They must also have a patient temperament, free from anxiety. 

The following dogs are the five best mobility dog breeds for people with disabilities: 

Labrador Retrievers

Labrador Retrievers are a favorite choice for most types of service dog requirements. They’re highly intelligent and eager to please, but labrador retrievers also have an excellent temperament. They bond well with their owners and family, are calm in public spaces, and socialize well with other dogs. It’s their size, however, that makes them an optimal mobility service dogs. They’re strong and sturdy, and grow large enough to help brace their owners and life limbs. Male Labrador retrievers can grow up to 80 pounds and can reach two feet in height. 

Newfoundlands

Newfoundland dogs are very large dogs, making them ideal for taller individuals who require fall prevention or bracing. The male dogs can grow up to 150 pounds and 28 inches in height. Although they’re large dogs, Newfoundlands are exceptionally gentle and patient. They’re well known in the dog world for being sweet and attentive with their owners—precisely what mobility service dog owners need. 

Bernese Mountain Dogs

The Bernese Mountain Dog looks almost like a large fluffy teddy bear, and their temperament adds to this aura. Their broad head and thick fur are adorable, but these traits also make the Bernese Mountain Dog great mobility dogs. Their thick coat allows their owners to grab onto them or brace themselves comfortable—and their large heads can do the same. This breed also boasts a gentle and patient personality. Not prone to anxiety or fear, they are well-behaved when out in public. Adult male Bernese Mountain dogs can reach up to 115 pounds and 27 inches in height, which allows them to tolerate weight. 

Rottweilers 

Rottweilers are well-known as guard dogs, but they also make ideal mobility service dog. Their size and physique make for a sturdy brace, and they can tolerate and pull weight. Male Rottweilers can grow up to 135 pounds and grow to 27 inches in height. What’s more, Rottweilers are exceptionally easy to train and loyal to their owners. Although their reputation as vicious guard dogs precede them, they’re quite calm and gentle. When in a playful mood, they can also be silly and goofy! 

St. Bernard

The St. Bernard is a large dog. Owners who choose a St. Bernard as a service dog may want to consider their size. Not only is the St. Bernard a huge dog, but it’s also very furry—making it look even larger. A male St. Bernard can grow up to 180 pounds and 30 inches in height. Ideal for larger people who may require a brace for fall prevention, the St. Bernard is an excellent mobility service dog. This breed, especially the males, are solid and muscular underneath the layers of fur. They’re also calm, attentive, and eager to learn. Despite their size, they’re wonderful with small children and function well in families. 

Other Points to Consider with Mobility Dog Breeds

Dogs used as mobility service dogs tend to be larger breeds. And large breeds need more space and more food. A mobility service dog works well in larger areas with little clutter. These dogs also need to stay fit to do their work, requiring space to run and play in. And because they’re often working, they may need extra nourishment. 

Large dogs may also require costly grooming fees because of their size and fur. This point is important because adequate grooming and feeding keep service dogs healthy and ready to accomplish their tasks. If you’re looking for a mobility service dog and can provide the right environment and care, then the breeds above may be right for you!