[nagdu] Why Labradors?

[Raven Tolliver]

Hi,
I am wondering why the majority of dogs trained in most guide dog
programs are labrador retrievers. What is it about that breed that
makes them dominate in the guide dog field?
I notice that in other service dog areas, this breed is not used as
often. And when people train their own guide dogs or have them
privately trained, it seems that labradors are rarely chosen. What
advantage do guide dog programs feel labradors have over other breeds
like the golden retriever, German shepherd, doberman pinscher, or even
the Australian shepherd.
When I asked a GEB instructor why they didn't pass more goldens
through, they said it was because a lot of goldens (their goldens
anyway), didn't have the confidence it took to be a guide dog. They
were not confident enough to make independent or executive decisions.
Also, I have heard that German shepherds are more sensitive to
corrections, and also require more of a routine. They do not adapt to
new environments or change as well as other breeds.
Do you guys find this to be true? What do you think?
Thanks.

--
Raven