Charlie Bayliss

A poll of 2,000 UK adults found widespread misconceptions about guide dogs, including beliefs that they can read traffic lights, choose routes independently, identify shops by signs, or help their owners around the home. Guide Dogs explains that dogs guide people safely around obstacles and hazards, while their owners remain responsible for navigation and decisions such as when to cross roads. The organization is partnering with Instant Quizzes on pub quiz events to improve public understanding, including the importance of not feeding, stroking, or distracting a working guide dog. The poll also highlighted uncertainty about eligible breeds and guide-dog access rights.