[nagdu] Why not goldens?

[Julie J.]

I think money figures into which breeds are used also.  If you have a well 
established, solid pool of labs, why would you go to the expense of adding 
other breeds?  The genetics, medical expenses and time commitment are huge 
to develop a line of dogs specific to guide work.  The litters from the 
specially bred lines at the schools have a higher success rate than some 
random litter of puppies.  To accomplish that level of success takes time 
and money, lots of money.  If labs are working, why change what isn't 
broken?

What I said way back in the beginning of this thread is still what I 
believe, labs are as close to a one size fits all dog as you can get, at 
least for the purpose we are discussing here.  That doesn't mean they are 
the right dog for everyone, but you are getting the most use out of your 
dollar with the labs.  The schools could have lines of labs, goldens, GSD's, 
Dobermans, Boxers, and 15 other breeds, but then you are also multiplying 
your expense exponentially.

Julie