Dakota

We got Dakota when he was 13 months old.  He was a very sweet dog, but had some body sensitivity issues, and wouldn't wear a puppy coat (the green vest that says "puppy in training"). This made it a little difficult to take him into stores and restaurants, but we managed to work around the issue. 

Dakota was really eager to please and was very calm.  We only had him for about three months before he was recalled to the campus for formal training. 

He and Eli really got along well, and one of the highlights of raising Dakota was being able to take him to Amie's high school reunion.  We were able to tell her classmates about what we were doing, and about what Guide Dogs do for people. 

Unfortunately Dakota had a hard time adjusting to kennel life once he returned for training, and also was afraid to wear a harness.  He was career changed before he made it as a guide, and went back to his first raisers where he currently lives today and is happy being a regular dog.