Volunteer with Dogs: Puppy Raising

Are you ready to raise a puppy who will one day change someone’s life?

Guide Dogs Queensland is seeking compassionate, patient, and responsible volunteers to join our Puppy Raising Program. As a Puppy Raiser, you will play a vital role in the early development of a future Guide Dog, supporting their journey from a ten week old puppy into a confident trusted companion.

This unique experience is incredibly rewarding—for individuals, couples, and even families—and offers all the joy of puppy companionship, with full training and support provided.

What You'll Do:

• Raise and care for a Guide Dog puppy full-time for approximately 6 months
• Support the pup’s development through daily training, socialisation, and routine
• Attend weekday training sessions and puppy outings
• Establish and maintain basic obedience, good house manners, and safe behaviours
• Incorporate socialisation into daily life—such as car trips, school pickups, or walks in new environments
• Follow all guidelines for the health, safety, and behavioural development of the pup

What's Required:

• Are over 18 years old, have a full driver’s licence and 24/7 access to a vehicle
• You live within the Brisbane and surrounds, Sunshine Coast, or Gold Coast regions
• A secure, dog friendly home environment
• Commitment to include the pup in your daily routine (they can’t be left alone for more than four hours)
• Physical ability to manage a growing dog (up to 30kg) and perform care tasks
• Ability to attend regular training sessions during weekday business hours
• Willingness to follow Guide Dogs Queensland’s training techniques, even if different from personal experience
• A household where all members are supportive of the program and prepared to follow consistent puppy raising guidelines
• A commitment to the wellbeing and safety of the pup in all environments
• Reliable internet access for communications and online learning

Please note you do not need prior dog experience—our team will provide all training and support.

We Provide:

• All food, equipment, and veterinary costs
• Full support and regular training / development sessions
• A strong community of fellow Puppy Raisers
• Updates on the pup’s journey and potential graduation as a working Guide Dog

Why Raise a Puppy for Guide Dogs Queensland? Puppy Raising is an incredibly rewarding experience. While saying goodbye can be emotional, you'll have the lifelong pride of knowing you helped transform a puppy into a trusted partner for someone with low or no vision.

Together, we can change lives—one paw at a time.