The basic training of a guide dog begins when the dog is about 12-18 months of age.
Before they can begin the training the puppies need foster homes where they grow up and are cared for by a volunteer puppy raiser. The puppy raisers have one of the most important jobs: they teach the pups basic obedience and walking on the leash and also get the puppy used to different environments, sights, sounds and smells they might encounter as qualified guide dogs.
Puppies are placed in foster homes preferably near Opaskoirakoulu, because that way it's easier to follow the puppy's development. The school supplies basic equipment and covers all veterinary expenses.
The puppy raisers' contribution is a very important part of Opaskoirakoulu's work. Without the foster homes it would be impossible to breed and train guide dogs.