Puppy Raising

Our incredible Puppy Development Volunteers assist Guide Dogs Tasmania in the rearing of well-behaved and socialised puppies, that can then enter formal training at a suitable age of development.

There are a number of volunteer roles available to suit different lifestyles and situations.

As a Puppy Raiser you will:

  • Welcome an eight-week old puppy into your home, and spend about 18 months introducing him or her to the same environments and experiences they will encounter as a working dog. 
  • Teach the young pup basic obedience and socialisation.
  • Attend regular training classes and individual walks at various locations with our qualified staff.

We provide everything the dog will need including bedding, food, toys, collars, leads and veterinary care.

Embrace the opportunity to help change people’s lives forever and join our amazing Puppy Development Volunteer program!

Apply online
Download the form

Other Puppy Development Program roles

Dog Boarders

Boarders provide temporary care to pups and older dogs on our program.

Bed & Breakfast Boarders

Bed & Breakfast Boarders provide care and downtime for Guide Dogs in training when they are not required in the training program (mostly overnight and on weekends).  Dogs will need to be dropped into the office each week day.

Meet Puppy Raiser, Varcha

Video credit: Mac40

“I’d really recommend Puppy Raising. It’s changed our lives, literally… We find ourselves part of a community, the support we get from the mentors and staff is amazing, and we’ve got friends we never would have met otherwise.”

Varcha, Puppy Raiser

Apply to be a Puppy Raiser

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Get occasional updates about our puppies and their life-changing journeys, meet the Tasmanians they’re helping, and receive special event invitations.

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